Old wounds, if left unattended, never really heal. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe managed to rip those wounds open in March when he claimed there was "no proof" that women had been forced to work as sex slaves to the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II.

The reprehensible statement was yet another injustice for the surviving "comfort women," a euphemism used to refer to the victims. Following an international outcry, Abe later apologized for his statement, but refused to acknowledge Japan's responsibility for running the brothels during the 1930s and 1940s.

Nevertheless, the damage had been done. Stating that there was "no proof" was arrogant and callous, especially given the fact that the Japanese government had already made a formal apology to the women in 1993. Even then, the government denied committing any legal violations.

Documented evidence of the brothels is scarce, but in 1992, records found in the Japanese Defense Ministry archives pointed to the military's direct involvement in operating the brothels.

More importantly, of the estimated 200,000 girls and women forced to work as sex slaves — mostly from Korea, China and the Philippines — many still serve as living proof of the existence of these military brothels. To say, then, that "no proof" exists is beyond insulting.

The House passed a nonbinding resolution Monday calling on Japan to "formally acknowledge, apologize and accept historical responsibility in a clear an unequivocal manner." Supporters of the resolution argue that Japan has never fully assumed responsibility for the disgraceful treatment of the women. Others believe Japan has apologized enough.

Perhaps it is merely a symbolic gesture, and for Abe, a matter of pride. But for these women, such a gesture could bring closure to a time when they were robbed of their youth and denied dignity.

It's the least they deserve.