Summary by Geopolist | Istanbul Center for Geopolitics:
The article examines Japan’s incremental transition to a more pro-Palestinian position, significantly shaped by public indignation at Israeli actions in Gaza and a succession of diplomatic occurrences. Former Foreign Minister Taro Kono’s suggestion to acknowledge Palestine as a state signifies a possible alteration in Japan’s Middle East policy, notwithstanding his failure to attain the position of prime minister. Nagasaki’s mayor’s decision to disinvite the Israeli envoy from a peace ceremony highlighted increasing public dissatisfaction with Israel’s policy.
Japan has consistently maintained its identity as a peace-oriented nation dedicated to international law while fostering a profound alliance with the United States, which continues to influence its foreign policy choices. Historically, Japan’s political elite prioritized East Asia, perceiving nations such as China, Russia, and North Korea as more pressing dangers. Japan’s substantial dependence on Middle Eastern oil compels Tokyo to sustain amicable relations with Arab nations, so complicating its stance on Palestine.
Notwithstanding these hurdles, Japan’s domestic dialogue has evolved since October 2023, primarily influenced by vivid depictions of the violence in Gaza. The magnitude of public rallies advocating for Palestine has increased, with young activists leveraging social media to propel a grassroots movement. This movement diverges from Japan’s historical hesitance to adopt firm stances on Middle Eastern issues and indicates a potential shift in the nation’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Although Japan continues to closely align with U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding defence, popular pressure has started to affect Japan’s diplomatic stance. This became apparent when Japan, having suspended funding for UNRWA, reinstated support after European actions. Corporate Japan is responding to these changes, exemplified by Itochu’s choice to sever connections with Israeli defence contractor Elbit, after the International Court of Justice’s finding against Israeli acts. These developments indicate that Japan may be gradually adopting a more autonomous and principled stance on Palestine, influenced by increasing public dissent over Israel’s actions and their wider ramifications for Japan’s global identity.
Read the full article here.
