Statement by the Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Suicide Bombing in Israel

October 22, 2002

The Government of Japan expresses deepest condolences to the bereaved families and heartfelt sympathy to the injured by the suicide bombing on the bus traveling near Hadera on October 21.
Terrorism cannot be justified for whatever reason. The Government of Japan feels strong indignation at and resolutely condemns such an act of terrorism aimed at innocent civilians. It is extremely unfortunate that a series of such incidents has occurred again when efforts are being made by the Israelis and Palestinians, as well as by the international community to achieve peace.
Japan once again strongly urges Chairman Arafat and the Palestinian Authority to make utmost crackdown efforts against extremists, and expects that both Israelis and Palestinians maintain their dialogue for peace and will exercise maximum restraint.

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