Japan’s Role in Ending the Gaza Humanitarian Crisis

In recent times, Japan’s dedication to promoting peace and development in the Middle East has garnered attention. It is imperative that Japan takes a leading role in resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives. As the current holder of the Group of Seven’s rotating presidency, Japan bears a significant responsibility to create a conducive diplomatic environment for the G-7’s coordinated efforts to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.

Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa‘s upcoming trip to the region, where she will discuss with counterparts and officials from Israel, Jordan, and other countries, underscores Japan’s commitment to this issue.

Japan’s unique position in the Middle East, distinct from that of the United States and Europe, requires it to leverage its diplomatic efforts more effectively. Japan maintains positive relations with Israel and Arab nations, and it supports the “two-state solution” for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing Israel for the Jewish people and Palestine for the Palestinian people. Moreover, Japan actively promotes the “Corridor for Peace and Prosperity” initiative to bolster Palestine’s economic independence.

Japan, however, has not fully harnessed its unique position to resolve the current crisis. In response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, six G-7 nations, excluding Japan, issued a statement supporting Israel’s right to self-defense while stressing adherence to international humanitarian law. Japan was absent from these discussions.

Last week, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution, backed by 121 countries, calling for a “humanitarian truce” between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in Gaza. While the United States opposed the resolution and France supported it, other G-7 countries, including Japan, Britain, and Germany, abstained from voting. These differing positions within the G-7 highlight the challenge Japan faces in navigating its diplomatic role.

The situation in Gaza has become a humanitarian crisis, and there is no time for delay. It is crucial that G-7 leading democracies unite to temporarily halt the fighting, provide humanitarian aid, and evacuate the wounded in Gaza. Japan’s upcoming G-7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Tokyo presents an opportunity for Japan to demonstrate diplomatic finesse in bridging gaps and conveying a unified message to the world.

This is also a test of Japan’s commitment to “human security,” an approach aimed at protecting individuals from threats to their survival.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Asahi Shimbun