Press Releases
Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the further deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip
1. The Government of Japan is deeply concerned about the recent escalation of violence between the Gaza Strip and Israel. Japan once again strongly appeals that the situation should be urgently calmed down. We deplore the situation in which, especially over the past three days, the Israel Air Force strike has caused many civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip, and we are saddened by this.
2. To end the vicious cycle of violence as early as possible, Japan urges all the parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint. Japan also demands refraining from usage of excessive power to prevent harrowing casualties of innocent civilians.
3. The meeting of the United Nations Security Council was emergently held on Thursday, 10 July. Japan continues making efforts to calm the situation in coordination with the international community.