In a move that signals growing international concern, Israel's ambassador to Japan has issued a warning to the host country, emphasizing the need for vigilance and scrutiny of the aid provided to Palestinians, particularly in light of recent events.
The warning comes in the aftermath of a surprise attack by Hamas on Israeli towns bordering Gaza on October 7, leading to a swift and forceful response from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The IDF's retaliatory shelling resulted in a tragic toll, with up to 1,200 Palestinians, including children, losing their lives, as reported by Gaza's Health Ministry.
In the midst of the escalating conflict, Israel also suffered significant casualties, with its death toll reaching 1,200 and around 2,700 wounded, as confirmed by a military spokesperson.
Speaking at a press conference, Israel's ambassador to Japan, Gilan Cohen, commended Japan for recognizing the Hamas attacks as acts of terrorism and for acknowledging Israel's right to defend itself. However, he urged Japan to closely examine how Hamas utilizes the aid it receives.
Japan, which advocates for a political solution to facilitate the coexistence of Israel and an independent Palestine, has been extending assistance to Palestinians through various programs. Notably, over the past decade, Japan's support for Palestine has totaled $2.3 billion, as outlined in a Foreign Ministry document from June.
Furthermore, Japan imports over 90 percent of its crude oil from the Middle East, adding a layer of complexity to its stance in the region.
While condemning the terrorist attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Japan's absence from a joint statement supporting Israel, issued by five G7 members on October 9, was attributed to its desire to maintain flexibility in its approach. This approach involves active behind-the-scenes efforts to mediate and influence both Palestine and Israel.
In a significant development, Israel ordered its state-run electricity company to halt the energy supply to the Gaza Strip, raising concerns about the potential consequences of fuel shortages. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent, their services could cease within four days if the entry of fuel into Gaza remains blocked.
As tensions in the region continue to mount, the international community watches closely, with a particular focus on Japan's role and its commitment to promoting peace and stability.