Japan has urged Israel to declare a humanitarian pause in the ongoing war against Hamas, emphasizing the need to ensure relief reaches civilians in Gaza. The call reflects Tokyo’s commitment to protecting civilian lives and facilitating rapid aid delivery amid mounting humanitarian concerns. Officials stress that any pause should allow for uninterrupted access for humanitarian workers, medical teams, and basic necessities to reach affected communities in Gaza as soon as possible. The appeal comes as part of a broader effort by Japan to encourage de-escalation and prioritize civilian safety in a volatile regional crisis.
During a four-day swing through Israel and Jordan, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa announced that Japan would contribute 65 million dollars in new humanitarian assistance to alleviate the Gaza crisis. This commitment supplements the 10 million dollars Tokyo had already provided, underscoring Tokyo’s sustained support for humanitarian relief, medical aid, food supplies, and shelter for those displaced by the conflict. The pledge mirrors Japan’s long-standing stance on protecting civilians and delivering aid in conflict zones, and it aims to bolster relief efforts on the ground while diplomatic channels remain open.
Kamikawa conveyed the humanitarian message to Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and held substantive discussions on the situation with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki in Tel Aviv on Friday, followed by a separate meeting in Ramallah later the same day. The discussions focused on safe, reliable access for humanitarian convoys, clear lines of communication to prevent fatal misunderstandings, and mechanisms to monitor and ensure that aid reaches those most in need. Officials indicated that both sides acknowledged the urgency of protecting civilians and enabling relief operations, even as security considerations and military objectives continue to shape the crisis response. The dialogues occurred in a context of ongoing regional diplomacy aimed at reducing suffering while seeking to preserve civilian life and dignity for people in Gaza and surrounding areas.