The House of Representatives passed a bill Friday that paves the way for elements of the Self-Defense Forces to go on a mission in Iraq.

Since Diet deliberations on the bill began June 24, however, some remain in the dark over what the SDF units will do and where they might operate.

What's more, the ruling coalition and opposition parties presented conflicting reports about Iraq's security situation and what kind of assistance is needed. The reports were handed in by fact-finding missions upon their return from the country.