Japan Hesitates to Recognize Palestine: Internal and External Factors Shape Decision-Making
Amid rising international pressure and complex diplomatic negotiations, Japan remains one of the few nations that has yet to officially recognize the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
This deliberate stance is deeply rooted in Japan’s desire to maintain stable relations with the United States, which continues to support Israel’s position in this conflict.
Japanese officials are carefully weighing the potential consequences of recognition, considering both geopolitical dynamics and internal assessments of national interests.
Several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and Australia, recently announced their support for recognizing Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, intensifying diplomatic pressure on Israel.
According to official sources in Tokyo, Japan is conducting a comprehensive review, evaluating the timing and conditions for possible recognition, should circumstances become favorable.
The Kyodo News Agency reports that the United States has already urged Japan, through diplomatic channels, to refrain from recognizing Palestine, emphasizing the sensitive nature of this issue.
Foreign Minister Takehiro Iwaya reaffirmed this stance on September 16 during a press briefing, stating that Japan is undertaking a ‘deliberate assessment’ and discussing ‘appropriate conditions.’ Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga echoed these sentiments, expressing serious concern over the Israeli ground operation in Gaza and warning that the foundations for a two-state solution could be compromised.
He called on Israel to urgently undertake measures to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, including addressing hunger and destruction.
At the UN meeting on September 12, Japan was among 142 countries supporting a declaration outlining ‘specific, time-bound, and irreversible steps’ toward a two-state solution.
However, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is reportedly planning to skip the key session scheduled for September 22 in New York, which may influence Japan’s stance during critical international deliberations.