Japan security bills pass

Japan’s parliament approved contentious legislation that enhances the role of the country’s military by loosening post-World War II constraints, after the ruling bloc defeated opposition parties’ last-ditch effort to block a vote.

The upper house’s approval makes the legislation into law, reinterpreting Japan’s constitution and fundamentally changing the way it uses its military. Opponents say it violates Japan’s constitution and puts the country at risk of becoming embroiled in U.S.-led wars.