During a budget committee meeting on the 9th, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reiterated her stance that relocating the U.S. Futenma Air Station to Henoko is the only viable solution. Takaichi's comments came in response to criticisms from opposition leader Tomoko Tamura of the Communist Party, who emphasized that continued opposition to the Henoko relocation while demanding the elimination of risks associated with the Futenma base is contradictory. Takaichi did not specify when the Futenma base would be returned but suggested that advancing the Henoko project is essential for reducing the base's dangers.

Tamura pointed out that the U.S. Department of Defense has indicated that the Futenma facilities won't be returned until an alternative long runway is selected, implying that the continued construction at Henoko merely serves to prolong U.S. military operations at Futenma. Takaichi maintained her government’s position, dismissing opposition arguments and asserting that the ongoing construction at Henoko is crucial for addressing the risks posed by the Futenma base. This underscores the contentious nature of the relocation plan, which has been met with widespread local opposition.

The ongoing debate highlights the complex dynamics between local residents' safety concerns and government commitments to U.S.-Japan security agreements. As the relocation plan progresses, the implications for Okinawa and its residents remain significant, with many fearful about the potential impact on their communities. The government’s insistence on Henoko as the sole solution may lead to further tensions, both locally and within the broader context of U.S.-Japan relations concerning military presence in the region.