TOKYO, Sept 17 — Japan has decided not to recognise a Palestinian state at this time, a move influenced largely by its deep-rooted alliance with the United States and fears of escalating tensions in the Middle East, Asahi Shimbun reported today, citing unnamed government insiders.
This decision comes as global momentum builds toward Palestinian statehood. Countries such as Britain, France, Canada, and Australia are expected to express their support for a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly this month — a significant show of international pressure on Israel’s controversial actions in the region.
Behind the scenes, diplomatic maneuvering has been intense. The United States reportedly leaned on Japan to hold off recognition through several channels, while French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot was said to have strongly urged Japan to reconsider, according to reports by Kyodo News.
Despite the growing chorus of nations advocating for Palestinian statehood, Japan is treading carefully. Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya confirmed in a press briefing that Tokyo is still “conducting a comprehensive assessment” regarding the right time and approach for potentially recognising Palestinian statehood.
Japan’s top government spokesperson, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, echoed the same cautious stance. However, he didn’t hide his alarm over the worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. “The very foundations of a two-state solution could be collapsing,” Hayashi warned, expressing deep concern over Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza City.
Hayashi urged Israel to act swiftly to ease the crisis, including addressing famine and other urgent humanitarian needs.
At a recent UN session, Japan joined 141 other nations in supporting a resolution that advocates for a clearly defined path toward a two-state solution. Yet, according to Asahi, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is expected to skip the upcoming September 22 meeting in New York focused on this issue.
While Germany and Italy — fellow G7 nations — have voiced skepticism about the timing of recognising Palestine, calling it “counterproductive,” Japan finds itself delicately balancing its global relationships, domestic policy considerations, and a rapidly evolving crisis in the Middle East.
But behind every government decision lies the silent pulse of human lives — families, children, and communities hoping for peace, dignity, and a future free from fear. Whether a state is recognised today or tomorrow, the world must never forget the urgent human need for justice, compassion, and meaningful action. Recognition is not just a diplomatic move — it’s a message to millions that their lives and dreams matter.
