Japan, EU reiterate need for ceasefire in Gaza, condemn deterioration of situation in West Bank

By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) - Japan and the EU on Wednesday doubled down on the need for an “immediate and permanent" ceasefire in the besieged Palestinian enclave of Gaza, strongly condemning the "further deterioration" of the situation in the West Bank.

The two sides expressed their resentment in a joint statement, following a summit between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, EU Council President Antonio Costa, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Tokyo.

“Japan and the EU are committed to advancing regional peace and stability in the Middle East,” the statement said.

Seeking the release of all hostages, the two sides urged for an "unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza," which remains under blockade by the Israeli military.

They also expressed “support for the people of Syria, as it works towards a peaceful, inclusive, and stable political future,” affirming their “support for Lebanon's efforts towards stabilization, reconstruction, and reform agenda.”

Israel has killed more than 59,100 Palestinians, most of them women and children, in the Gaza Strip since October 2023. The military campaign has devastated the enclave, collapsed the health system, and led to severe food shortages.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.