Statement by the Press Secretary on the Terrorist Bombings in Jerusalem

July 31, 1997

1. The Government of Japan received with anger and sadness the report that many fatalities and injuries were inflicted on innocent civilians by two terrorist bombings in Jerusalem on July 30.
   
   Japan expresses its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to all the families of the victims and the citizens of Israel.
   
   
2. Japan hereby reiterates its fundamental position that it firmly condemns such abhorrent terrorist acts.
   
   
3. It is most regrettable that this incident took place, and especially so soon after an important step was recently agreed upon between the Israelis and Palestinians for the normalization of the peace process.
   
   
4. Japan stresses that it is incumbent upon the parties to continue their utmost efforts toward relaxing tensions, with the aim of attaining stability and peace in the region, without succumbing to such terrorist pressures.