Press Releases
Israel's Military Operations in Gaza City in the Gaza Strip
(Statement by Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi)
September 17, 2025
- On 16 September (local time), the Israel Defense Forces announced its expanding ground operations in Gaza City in the Gaza Strip, which will further aggravate the already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including famine. Japan strongly condemns these actions, which are entirely unacceptable.
- Japan views with a profound sense of urgency the ongoing Israeli actions, including the recent military operations, which could undermine the very foundation of a two-state solution. We once again strongly urge Israel to immediately cease all unilateral actions that run counter to the realization of a two-state solution. Furthermore, we call upon all parties, including Israel, to return to negotiations and work in good faith toward achieving a ceasefire and the release of hostages. We strongly urge Israel to immediately take concrete measures to immediately end the dire humanitarian crisis, including famine, and to comply with international law, including international humanitarian law.
- Japan has consistently supported a two-state solution, whereby Israel and a future independent Palestinian state live side by side in peace and security, through confidence-building and negotiations between the parties. Japan remains committed to continuing to work for its realization in close cooperation with relevant countries and international organizations.