Japan’s Foreign Minister, Yoko Kamikawa, has announced her intention to meet with Palestinian counterparts during her upcoming visit to Israel and Jordan. Her visit comes as the crisis in Gaza escalates following Israeli airstrikes, including an attack on the Jabalia refugee camp. Minister Kamikawa also plans to meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen during her two-day trip, which begins on Friday.
One of the primary objectives of her visit is to address the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza region and to express Japan’s readiness to continue providing aid. The Japanese Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of this mission and her commitment to engaging with Palestinian officials to explore ways to alleviate the ongoing crisis.
While the specific Palestinian officials she will meet were not disclosed, the talks are expected to cover a range of issues, including the recent escalation of violence and its impact on the Palestinian population.
Before her departure, Minister Kamikawa acknowledged the Israeli strike on the Jabalia refugee camp, a densely populated area in Gaza, and expressed her concern over the loss of civilian lives resulting from the attack. The situation in Gaza has raised international concerns and spurred diplomatic efforts to find a resolution.
On a positive note, Minister Kamikawa reported that all ten Japanese nationals and their eight Palestinian family members who wished to leave Gaza have successfully evacuated to Egypt. She assured that the evacuees are in good health and expressed Japan’s commitment to assisting its citizens in times of crisis.
She also mentioned that one Japanese national residing in Gaza had chosen to remain in the region and did not evacuate. Japan intends to maintain contact with this individual to ensure their safety and well-being.
Japan has a long history of supporting humanitarian efforts worldwide, and Minister Kamikawa’s visit to the region underscores the nation’s commitment to aiding those affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The diplomatic discussions with Palestinian counterparts will aim to address the urgent needs of the population and explore ways to alleviate the suffering brought about by recent events.
