UNITED NATIONS: On Tuesday, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba declared at the United Nations General Assembly that recognizing the State of Palestine is only a matter of time, not possibility. He expressed deep indignation over recent controversial statements made by senior Israeli officials, which he felt undermined the legitimacy of Palestinian statehood.
Global Shift Toward Recognition of Palestine
Nearly 80% of UN member states have now acknowledged Palestine as a sovereign state. Countries like Britain, Canada, and France joined the list of recognizing nations this week, reflecting a growing international shift in response to the prolonged conflict in Gaza.
Japan’s Firm Stand: “When, Not If”
In a powerful statement, Ishiba said:
“I am deeply outraged by the remarks from high-ranking Israeli government officials that seem to outright dismiss the concept of Palestinian statehood.”
“For our nation, the issue isn’t whether to acknowledge a Palestinian state, but rather when.”
He also issued a stern warning to Israel:
“The ongoing one-sided actions by the Israeli government will never be tolerated.”
Warning of Potential Action Against Israel
The Japanese Prime Minister emphasized that if any further steps are taken by Israel that block progress toward a two-state solution, Japan may be forced to adopt new diplomatic measures in response.
“If additional steps are taken that hinder the achievement of a two-state solution, Japan will have no choice but to implement new measures in reaction,” Ishiba said.
Context: Gaza Conflict and Human Toll
Japan’s position comes amid growing international backlash against Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began after the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. That unprecedented strike resulted in the deaths of 1,219 Israelis, most of them civilians.
In the nearly two years since, Israel’s military response has led to the deaths of 65,382 Palestinians, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry — figures considered credible by the United Nations.
Japan’s Strategic Balance and Diplomatic Caution
Japan, a core member of the G7 and home to approximately 54,000 US troops, must balance its close alliance with the United States while also reflecting its own foreign policy principles.
Other influential Asian nations such as South Korea and Singapore have yet to recognize Palestine as a state.
Humanitarian Perspective and Governance Expectations
Reflecting on the humanitarian crisis, Ishiba stated:
“The terror caused by Hamas and the destruction in Gaza we see today have left many feeling profoundly sorrowful.”
However, he also urged responsibility from the Palestinian side:
“What is most important is that Palestine can thrive sustainably, coexisting peacefully alongside Israel.”
“While we welcome Palestine to take on its role as a responsible participant in the global community, the Palestinian side needs to create a governance structure that promotes accountability.”
Conclusion
Japan’s clear message at the UN signals a strong shift in diplomatic tone, putting pressure on Israel to adhere to international norms while also emphasizing the need for Palestinian reform and responsible governance. Recognition, as stated by Japan, is inevitable—it is no longer a question of “if,” but “when.”
