LOS ANGELES -- Iraq is finding out what it means to be an enemy of the United States. But what does it mean to be a friend?

Consider how Japan has supported the U.S. push into Baghdad. Even so, the truth is that most Japanese are furious with their prime minister. They believe Junichiro Koizumi caved in to U.S. pressure because of North Korea. Had Japan's Constitution permitted a more robust military posture, they argue, they would not be so beholden to Washington for protection and deterrence against Pyongyang.

So when America hopscotched over the U.N. Security Council, hit the Iraqi desert and brought its friends and allies kicking and screaming along with it, the Japanese were left wondering about the next U.S. military adventure it might be compelled to support against its better judgment. To avoid being put in that position again, Japan could dramatically build up its defenses. But that would raise tensions throughout the region and prompt neighboring China, in particular, to accelerate its own arms buildup. No one wants that.