Did Itachi Uchiha Accept Naruto as His Friend?

In the complex and often tense world of the Naruto series, the dynamic between Itachi Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki is particularly intriguing. Many fans wonder if Itachi truly accepted Naruto as a close friend. Let's delve into the details to uncover the nuances of their relationship.

Itachi's Initial Acknowledgment

In some fan theories, it is believed that Itachi Uchiha did indeed recognize Naruto Uzumaki as a friend. This acknowledgment is most evident during their conversation in a pivotal moment when it was revealed that Itachi had a soft spot for Naruto. When Itachi was in a position of Anbu, he saw Naruto sitting on a bench, and from that moment, Naruto's determination and aspirations caught Itachi's attention.

Witnessing Naruto's Ambition

During their encounter, Naruto openly declared his intention to become Hokage, a goal that Itachi admired deeply. Itachi, who also desired the Hokage position, found Naruto's determination to be admirable. This admiration led to a sense of kinship, albeit a distant one, between the two characters. Itachi's emotional connection to Naruto's ambitions made him more open to the idea of Naruto watching over Sasuke, as the latter's role in receiving the Reanimation Jutsu was crucial.

Itachi’s Acceptance and Relief

Their relationship didn't transition into a close friendship, but rather Itachi gave his blessing to Naruto to be the one to watch over Sasuke. This act of acceptance allowed Itachi to fulfill his paternal duty, which was to ensure Sasuke's safety. With this duty finally lifted, Itachi received a much-needed sense of relief. It was his father's dying wish to protect Sasuke, and now that he knew Naruto was looking after his younger brother, he could finally rest easier.

Itachi's Reincarnation and Further Acknowledgment

When Itachi was reincarnated in Naruto: Shippuden, his stance on Naruto evolved slightly. Although it's still debated, there is evidence that Itachi accepted Naruto as an acquaintance rather than a close friend. However, Itachi's satisfaction with Naruto's relationship with Sasuke is notable.

When Naruto expressed that he saw Sasuke as a brother, it brought a genuine smile to Itachi's face. Itachi was happy not just because of the sentiment, but because he recognized that Sasuke had found a true friend in Naruto. This is a significant shift, showing a deeper layer of Itachi's character and his emotional connection to his family and the well-being of his brother.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the relationship between Itachi Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki remains complex and multifaceted, Itachi did indeed acknowledge Naruto as a friend. Whether it was through admiration, emotional connection, or a sense of duty, Itachi's soft spot for Naruto played a crucial role in their evolving relationship. The Naruto series is full of deep emotional connections, and the bond between these two characters is one of the most compelling aspects of the show.