Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko remained vague on Tuesday when asked about resuming funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

In line with the United States and other Western countries, Japan has “temporarily” suspended funds to UNRWA after it was alleged that UNRWA staff in Gaza had aided Hamas in the leadup to the attack on Israel on October 7.

“Japan is extremely concerned about the recent allegations against UNRWA staff,” Kamikawa told the media. “As the United Nations investigates this matter and considers countermeasures, we will suspend additional funding to UNRWA for the time being and take appropriate measures, including strengthening governance within UNRWA.”

When pressed, Kamikawa would not give any indication about future funding.

“This investigation has just begun,” she noted. “Although we cannot predict future responses, we will continue to consider future responses while maintaining close communication with the United Nations, UNRWA and relevant countries.”

“I believe that for UNRWA to fulfill its original role, it is a prerequisite that the agency’s governance is reliable. Japan strongly urges appropriate responses so that UNRWA can fully fulfill its role.”

Kamikawa said Japan will continue to “persistently and proactively make diplomatic efforts aimed at improving the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and quickly calming down the situation, including by providing support to other international organizations.” She conceded that UNRWA has played a vital role in providing essential services such as insurance, health care, education, and welfare to millions of Palestinian refugees. 

As for other diplomatic efforts regarding the situation in Gaza, Kamikawa gave the impression that Japan is relying on the efforts of others rather than making an effective contribution by itself.

“Discussions are being held among the countries concerned regarding the release of the hostages and the cessation of fighting,” she said. “Japan is working closely with the countries concerned to ensure the immediate release of the hostages and an improvement of the humanitarian situation.”