On August 9, 2025, Nagasaki marked the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing with a powerful ceremony, including the first simultaneous ringing of the twin bells at Immaculate Conception Cathedral since the attack. The moment commemorated the horrific event that took place on August 9, 1945, and symbolized the enduring message of peace and unity in the face of tragedy.
What Happened
At precisely 11:02 AM on August 9, 2025, twin bells at Nagasaki’s Immaculate Conception Cathedral rang in unison for the first time since the bombing, commemorating the exact moment the atomic bomb exploded over the city. The ceremony, held after heavy downpours, was a solemn moment of reflection and remembrance. Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki urged the world to “stop armed conflicts immediately,” stressing the looming threat of nuclear war and calling for global peace.
Who Is Shiro Suzuki
Shiro Suzuki is the current Mayor of Nagasaki, Japan. Known for his strong advocacy for peace and nuclear disarmament, Suzuki’s address on the 80th anniversary of the bombing highlighted the need for international cooperation to prevent nuclear warfare. His call to halt violence resonated deeply with those attending the ceremony, reflecting the ongoing global struggle for peace and stability.
Background or Timeline
On August 9, 1945, the United States dropped the “Fat Man” atomic bomb on Nagasaki, three days after Hiroshima. Approximately 74,000 people lost their lives in the southwestern port city, joining the 140,000 victims in Hiroshima. Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945, marked the end of World War II, though the impact of the bombings continued for survivors, who faced both physical and psychological trauma.
Survivor Hiroshi Nishioka, who was only three kilometers from the explosion, shared his vivid recollections of the suffering that followed, with victims, even the lucky ones, succumbing to radiation sickness and bleeding. The invisible terror of radiation haunted Nagasaki’s survivors, known as hibakusha, for decades.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The anniversary of the atomic bombing sparked widespread reflection and discussion on social media. Public figures, activists, and citizens around the world shared messages of remembrance and calls for disarmament. Survivors and peace advocates voiced their stories, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while striving for a future free from nuclear threat.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Nagasaki’s 80th anniversary ceremony featured significant participation from around 100 countries, underscoring the global importance of the event. Despite tensions, Russia and Israel were both notably absent or not invited, reflecting the complex political climate. The ceremony’s highlight was the restoration of the cathedral’s twin bells, which now serve as a symbol of resilience, rebuilding, and the unyielding desire for peace.
Catholic supporters, particularly from the U.S., contributed to the restoration project after an American university professor, James Nolan, raised $125,000 for the new bell. His efforts stemmed from the idea of a Japanese Christian to hear the bells ring together again in his lifetime.
How to Help
The ongoing effort to promote peace and prevent nuclear war remains vital. Individuals can support disarmament organizations, advocate for peaceful international relations, and educate others about the history of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. The world must continue to work together for a future where the horrors of nuclear warfare are not repeated.
Closing: This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
