Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan expressed “grave concern” over the legislation adopted by the Israeli Knesset to severely restrict the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
 
Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi issued a statement at 2:00 AM on Wednesday, underlining the immediate urgency of the situation and expressing Japan’s deep concern about the further worsening of the Palestinians’ humanitarian situation.

“The situation, already dire due to the protracted fighting in the Gaza Strip and the further deterioration of humanitarian conditions in areas including the West Bank and Lebanon, demands immediate attention,” Iwaya emphasized, underlining the pressing need for a sustainable environment for humanitarian assistance activities by UNRWA and other international organizations.

“Japan strongly urges the Government of Israel to maintain such an environment sustainably,” the Japanese Foreign Minister said.

Minister Iwaya further emphasized the crucial and indispensable role that UNRWA plays in providing humanitarian assistance, health care, and education to millions of Palestine refugees, underscoring the significant impact of the organization’s work.

Since 1953, Japan has been a significant financial contributor to UNRWA, working closely with the Agency to assist Palestine refugees in the Gaza Strip and across the Middle East region.
 
Foreign Minister Iwaya reiterated Japan’s unwavering commitment to monitoring UNRWA’s governance improvements, ensuring that the Agency operates with the highest standards and pledging Japan to continue support UNRWA’s measures to enhance its governance.