TOKYO: The Japanese government said it is not in a position to condemn the reported Israeli bombing of Damascus and Aleppo airports in Syria because of the lack of confirmation by Israel.

“We are aware of Syria’s announcement (on the bombing of the airports), but we understand that Israel has so far made no comment on that, including whether or not it carried out the attacks,” Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko said at a press conference on Tuesday.

“Japan will continue to closely monitor the overall situation in the Middle East, including the situation in Israel and Palestine where unpredictable situations continue.”

Kamikawa also said Japan will continue its diplomatic efforts to try and reduce tension in the area as soon as possible, in close cooperation with other countries concerned.