Japanese Hostages Released in Iraq

I'm sure the Koizumi government and families of those kidnapped must be feeling pretty relieved now that two more hostages have been released. This follows the three other Japanese hostages that were released two days ago. If anything, this is breaking new ground for Japan with its deep-rooted pacifism. As the war progresses in Iraq, we'll see what role Japan will play alongside the U.S., Britain, and other allies.