Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The Japanese government welcomed today the cease-fire agreement reached between Israel and the “Palestinian militants,” and expressed its respect for the mediation efforts by the countries concerned including the United States and Egypt. Japan strongly hopes that this agreement will lead to a lasting cease-fire in Gaza strip and long-term stability of the region.

The foreign ministry in Tokyo said in an official statement that Japan has been making diplomatic efforts to calm down the situation in cooperation with the international community and will continue to work toward building confidence between the parties concerned. Japan is also determined to play an active role by providing emergency humanitarian aid and reconstruction assistance, it said.

“The Government of Japan once again stresses the need for all the parties concerned to continue their efforts for achieving peace based on a two-state solution and to enhance the momentum toward confidence-building between Israel and Palestine.”

Meanwhile, thousands of people took to the streets in Tokyo today denouncing Israel and calling for “Free Palestine.” Most of them belong to the Muslim community residing in Japan who gathered at the Israeli embassy holding placards condemning Israel. Heavy police presence accompanied the demonstrators across the street.