TOKYO, Sept 17 — Japan has opted not to recognize a Palestinian state at this time, a move that appears to reflect its strategic alignment with the United States and its concern over escalating regional tensions, Asahi Shimbun reported today, citing unnamed government sources.
This decision comes as momentum builds globally for Palestinian statehood. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and Australia are preparing to voice their support for the recognition of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly this month — a diplomatic step that increases international pressure on Israel over its actions in Gaza and the occupied territories.
Behind the scenes, the United States reportedly engaged Tokyo through multiple diplomatic channels, urging restraint. Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has reportedly pushed his Japanese counterpart to support recognition, according to Kyodo News.
Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya addressed the issue in a press briefing yesterday, stating that the country is undertaking a “comprehensive assessment, including appropriate timing and modalities” before making a definitive decision on recognising Palestinian statehood.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, speaking today, echoed Iwaya’s comments and expressed deep concern over the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza. He warned that the foundations of a two-state solution — long viewed as the international community’s preferred path to peace — may be on the verge of collapse.
“We urge Israel to take substantive steps to end the severe humanitarian crisis, including the threat of famine, as soon as possible,” Hayashi added.
At a United Nations meeting held last Friday, Japan joined 141 other nations in supporting a resolution calling for “tangible, time-bound, and irreversible steps” toward a two-state solution — signaling Japan’s continued advocacy for peace even as it holds back on immediate recognition.
However, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is expected to skip a high-level meeting on Palestinian recognition scheduled for September 22 in New York, Asahi reported. Within the G7, views remain divided: while some nations lean toward recognition, others, like Germany and Italy, have called such moves “counterproductive” at this delicate stage.
