Press Releases
Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the recent situation in the Gaza Strip
1. The Government of Japan deeply regrets that, despite efforts by the international community including the Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire, Palestinian militants did not accept the international efforts. Japan is deeply concerned that the violence between the Gaza Strip and Israel continues and subsequently an Israeli ground operation into Gaza was launched.
2. To end the vicious cycle of violence as early as possible, Japan once again urges all the parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint. Japan also demands refraining from use of excessive force to prevent harrowing casualties of innocent civilians.
3. Japan will strengthen its appeal to Israel and Palestine and make efforts to calm the situation and achieve a lasting ceasefire in coordination with the international community.