TOKYO, Aug. 9 -- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan issued the following news release:
On August 8 (local time), the Government of Israel announced its decision to approve a plan to take control of Gaza City. Japan is strongly concerned that this decision will further exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Japan once again urges all parties to return to negotiations and to work in good faith towards a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Japan opposes any actions, such as this plan, that undermine the realization of a two-state solution.
Improving the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza is an urgent priority. Japan calls on Israel to take substantive measures to end the serious humanitarian crisis, includin...