Japan Signals Imminent Recognition of Palestinian State, Condemns Israeli Actions at UN

New York — Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba delivered a strong statement at the United Nations on Tuesday, declaring that Tokyo’s recognition of the State of Palestine is “only a matter of time,” and expressing sharp condemnation of recent remarks by senior Israeli officials.

In a speech that underscored growing international frustration over the prolonged Gaza conflict, Ishiba said he was “indignant” at Israeli statements that dismiss the viability of a Palestinian state. His remarks come as a wave of countries — including the UK, Canada, and France — officially recognized Palestine following nearly two years of war in Gaza.

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“For our country, the question is not whether to recognize a Palestinian state, but when,” Ishiba stated. “The continued unilateral actions by the government of Israel can never be accepted.”

He further warned that Japan may introduce “new measures” if actions obstructing the two-state solution continue.

Japan, a key U.S. ally and G7 member, has traditionally maintained a cautious stance on Middle East issues. However, Ishiba’s remarks mark a significant policy shift, aligning Japan with the growing bloc of UN member states — now nearly 80 percent — that recognize Palestinian statehood.

The call for Palestinian recognition follows Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,219 Israelis, mostly civilians. Since then, Israeli operations have resulted in 65,382 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry — figures deemed credible by the United Nations.

Prime Minister Ishiba also addressed the need for governance reforms on the Palestinian side:

“What matters the most is that Palestine can exist in a sustainable manner, living side by side in peace with Israel,” he said. “The Palestinian side must establish a system of governance that ensures accountability.”

Japan’s position may put pressure on other key Asian nations such as South Korea and Singapore, which have so far withheld recognition of Palestine. It also introduces a diplomatic challenge for Washington, which has opposed unilateral recognition moves and argues that such steps may reward militant actions.

With tensions escalating and diplomatic stances hardening, Ishiba’s declaration signals Tokyo’s growing urgency to see progress toward a two-state solution — and its willingness to distance itself from traditional diplomatic caution in pursuit of peace.