Arab News Japan
TOKYO: Japan strongly condemned the escalation of ground operations by Israel’s occupation forces in Gaza City, highlighting that this will further worsen the already dire humanitarian crisis, including famine, in Gaza.
On Wednesday, Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi issued an official statement declaring the Israeli military invasion of Gaza “entirely unacceptable,” but did not outline any actions Japan would take to stop Israel, such as imposing sanctions.
“Japan is deeply concerned about the ongoing actions taken by Israel, particularly the recent military operations, as they could jeopardize the foundation of a two-state solution. We strongly urge Israel to immediately halt all unilateral actions that contradict the pursuit of this solution,” the statement said, using unusually strong language.
Foreign Minister Iwaya also urged “all parties, including Israel, to return to negotiations and work in good faith towards achieving a ceasefire and the release of hostages.” Iwaya particularly emphasized, “We strongly urge Israel to take immediate and concrete measures to end the dire humanitarian crisis, including famine, and to strictly adhere to international law, including international humanitarian law.”
Japan has consistently endorsed a two-state solution, allowing Israel and a future independent Palestinian state to coexist peacefully and securely through trust-building measures and negotiations between the parties, the statement said.
Japan stands resolutely committed to the pursuit of a two-state solution, engaging actively with key nations and international organizations to bring about lasting peace. Yet, in a significant decision, Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru’s government has reportedly chosen not to grant recognition to the State of Palestine, at least for now. Reports from local Japanese media reveal that the United States has issued stark warnings to Ishiba’s administration, suggesting that recognizing Palestine could jeopardize the vital relationship between the two nations.
Despite ongoing condemnations, Japan’s relationship with Israel is thriving, particularly in the fields of technology and economics. There is a clear surge in bilateral cooperation, robust business interactions, and meaningful official exchanges that underscore this growing partnership.
AloJapan.com