Memorials Mark 80 Years Since Hiroshima Nagasaki Atomic Bombings

This week marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States during World War II, events that caused unprecedented devastation and loss of life. The first bomb, "Little Boy," was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, unleashing a fireball and shockwave that killed approximately 140,000 people immediately and in the following weeks, followed by the second bomb, "Fat Man," on Nagasaki three days later, resulting in an additional 74,000 deaths. These bombings remain the only wartime use of nuclear weapons and caused immense human suffering, including burns, radiation sickness, blindness, and widespread destruction. Memorial exhibitions such as "Remembering for Peace – 80 Years on from the Atomic Bomb" are being held to honor survivors' testimonies and promote peace and diplomacy in light of ongoing global tensions. The bombings ultimately led to Japan's unconditional surrender and the end of World War II, underscoring the critical importance of nuclear non-proliferation efforts. The anniversary serves as a solemn reminder of the horrors of nuclear war and the need to prevent their recurrence through international cooperation.