Japan rebukes 218 defense officials, staff

TOKYO — Japan's defense ministry said Friday it will impose disciplinary action against numerous senior officials and personnel following the mishandling of classified materials and other wrongdoings, that could undermine Tokyo's attempts to work more closely with the United States and other allies.

Of the 218 people disciplined, 11 senior officials were dismissed, two were demoted, dozens were suspended and 14 received pay cuts, while about half of them were warned.