The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945 remain a contentious topic, particularly among pacifists who argue that any deliberate killing is inherently wrong. They contend that the bombings, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 200,000 people, were morally indefensible. This perspective complicates the commemoration of Victory over Japan Day.

However, this clear stance raises further questions. If killing is always wrong, then the United States should not have engaged in war against Imperial Japan or Nazi Germany. Critics of this view argue that without military intervention, the expansion of Japanese imperialism in Asia and the atrocities committed by the Nazis in Europe could have continued unchecked. Historical evidence suggests that those who perpetrated such violence were not deterred by non-violent resistance.

On the other hand, proponents of just war theory argue that while the mass killing of civilians is tragic, it can sometimes be justified if the military objective is significant and all reasonable measures are taken to minimize civilian casualties. This ethical framework does not prohibit civilian deaths entirely; rather, it stipulates that they should not be the intended target.

In this context, the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are viewed through a complex lens. If the intention was to destroy critical military targets and there were no viable alternatives, some argue that the bombings could be seen as morally justified, albeit tragic. Conversely, if the bombings were intended as acts of vengeance or to terrorize the Japanese government into surrender, such actions would be deemed immoral.

The motivations behind the bombings are still debated among historians. In a previous analysis, it was suggested that the bombings were more politically motivated than militarily necessary. However, after reviewing Evan Thomas's recent work on the decision-making processes in Washington and Tokyo, a shift in perspective has emerged. The primary motive, it appears, was to expedite the end of the war and save American lives, rather than to seek revenge against the Japanese people.