Japan calls for 'early easing of tensions' in Gaza

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) - In the face of renewed Israeli bombardment in the Gaza Strip, Japan on Friday called for an "early easing of tensions" in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

"Japan hopes for early easing of tensions in Gaza," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told Israeli President Isaac Herzog, according to Tokyo-based Kyodo News.

Kishida conveyed those expectations during a meeting on the sidelines of the UN COP28 climate conference in Dubai.

He also criticized and condemned Palestinian resistance group Hamas for its Oct. 7 surprise attack on Israel.

According to a statement by his office, Kishida said it was important that the release of hostages and increase in humanitarian relief to Gaza "lead to an early calming down of the situation."

Tokyo's push came hours after Israel resumed its attacks in Gaza, which have so far claimed 32 lives in the span of three hours, according to the enclave's Health Ministry.

The Israeli army announced Friday morning that it had resumed attacks in the Gaza Strip as a humanitarian pause that had been in place for a week came to an end.

The pause had begun early on Nov. 24 as part of an agreement between Israel and Palestinian resistance group Hamas to temporarily halt the fighting and strikes in Gaza for the release of hostages and prisoners on both sides, as well as the delivery of aid.

More than 15,000 Palestinians, mostly children and women, have been killed in Israeli attacks since Oct. 7. Around 1,200 Israelis have also been killed, according to official estimates.