Arab News Japan

Japan’s Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi stressed for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East during a telephone talk with his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz on Wednesday, adding that an escalation of the situation would not serve the interest of the region nor the international community.

The Japanese minister shared that an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is crucial for diplomatic settlements, as he emphasized that every diplomatic effort should be made in order to avoid further tension.

Iwaya also urged Israel to exercise restraint and asked for cooperation in regards to keeping Japanese nationals safe.

Regarding Gaza, the Japanese Foreign Minister stressed the importance of a ceasefire and deescalating the situation as soon as possible. He conveyed his concern regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza and asked for Israel’s cooperation to strengthen humanitarian assistance activities.

The Israeli minister congratulated Iwaya on being elected as Foreign Minister and assured cooperation regarding the Japanese nationals.

The death toll in Gaza has reached 42,010 since Oct. 7, 2023, as of Wednesday. Israel has launched several airstrikes on Lebanon. On Oct.1, Israel announced an incursion operation on Lebanon, which was followed by Iran launching attacks on Israel. The Japanese FM has not condemned Israel but only condemned Iran’s actions with the strongest words.