Japan recognizes Palestine as an individual state

Japan is considering the landmark step of formally recognizing the existence of Palestine as an independent state, a factor that will greatly alter the dynamics of its foreign policy and the broader Middle East peace process. Currently, Japan accommodates the permanent general mission of State of Palestine in Tokyo, although the PLO, which had opened its mission in Japan back in 1977, managed it under the leadership of Ambassador Waleed Siam.

Japan planning to recognize Palestine as an individual state along with maintaining good relationships with Israel

It has just been announced that, according to Ambassador Siam, both Japan and South Korea are now looking seriously at the possibility of recognizing Palestine. That is viewed as an act which would not preclude future negotiations with Israel, as Japan will support a “two-state solution” by all diplomatic means.

Japan’s consideration comes amidst a shifting global sentiment, as several Western countries—Spain, Norway, and Ireland among them—already recognize Palestine as an independent state. This issue of the state of Palestine has been further raised within Japanese public discourse through increased protests and calls for a Gaza ceasefire.

In a related development, Nagasaki—who was hardly hit by the bomb in World War II—did not extend invitations to Israeli officials during its commemoration ceremony, which actually served as an indicator of a subliminal change in attitude by Japan.

Japan is still considering recognizing Palestine but has continued making good relations with both Israel and Palestine. Historic visits were noted with both Japanese and Palestinian leaders visiting each other’s nations to mark Japan’s special role in the region.

Japan’s stance supporting the Palestinian cause includes even its support of the qualification of Palestine toward attaining membership in the United Nations, as well as through other connected UN resolutions. As of October 2023, commitments by Japan had already reached $125 million in assistance to the Palestinians.

The case of Gaza is getting worse as the conflict continues to rise, with 19 people having been left dead in recent Israeli airstrikes. The violence drew wide condemnation from the international community, especially after an accusation by the International Court of Justice that Israel committed genocide and the demand for the military operations to stop in Rafah immediately.