Okinawa Times reported that the Defense Ministry has asked the U.S. military not to administer COVID-19 vaccines to local base employees since their use has not yet been authorized in Japan. Following consultations with the Health Ministry and other relevant agencies, the Defense Ministry conveyed to the U.S. military the GOJ’s opposition to the proposed vaccination on the grounds that the GOJ would not be able to provide compensation to those who might suffer from possible side effects. According to the article, the chairman of the base workers’ union in Okinawa welcomed the planned vaccination of U.S. personnel since it will be effective in preventing the transmission of the virus among local people. The union official also supported the GOJ’s position opposing the vaccination of Japanese base workers because nobody would be held accountable for potential health damage caused by the vaccine’s side effects.