Which document called for Japan's unconditional surrender in July 1945?

The Potsdam Declaration called for Japan's unconditional surrender in July 1945. The United States, United Kingdom, and China issued the statement on July 26 during the Potsdam Conference, outlining the terms under which Japan could end the war.

The declaration demanded the surrender of all Japanese armed forces and warned that refusal would bring prompt and utter destruction. It also called for the elimination of militarist influence, the occupation of designated Japanese territory, disarmament, and the establishment of conditions supporting peaceful government.

The document specified that Japanese sovereignty would be limited to Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku, and smaller islands chosen by the Allies. It did not explicitly state what would happen to Emperor Hirohito, an omission that became important during Japan's surrender discussions.

Japan initially responded with mokusatsu, a term often translated as ignoring or withholding comment. After the atomic bombings, Soviet entry into the war, and intense internal debate, Japan accepted the declaration's terms. The formal surrender followed on September 2.