Israel-Gaza war: can Japan leverage its Middle East ties to create dialogue, defuse tensions?

Japan is striving to maintain neutrality in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Analysts suggest that Japan can utilize its robust ties with Middle Eastern countries to foster dialogue, despite its limited influence over the situation. Initially, Japan did not join the G7 nations in swiftly condemning Hamas' unexpected attack on Israel on October 7. However, a week later, Japan denounced the 'terror attacks', asserting that such actions were unjustifiable and that Israel had the right to self-defense under international law. This shift in stance might have prompted Palestinian envoys in Tokyo to urge the Japanese government to remain neutral and continue providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinians.

Ryo Hinata-Yamaguchi, an assistant professor of international relations at the University of Tokyo, stated that Japan is exercising caution in its approach towards the Middle East. This is due to its status as a US ally and G7 member, and its dependence on the region for energy security. Over 90 per cent of Japan’s oil is imported from Arab countries. Despite this, Japan plays significant diplomatic roles in collaborating with Middle Eastern countries to seek diplomatic and humanitarian solutions. Analysts believe that Japan has a 'tactical advantage' in the Middle East, with its strong ties enabling it to communicate with all parties, thereby enhancing dialogue opportunities to alleviate tensions in the ongoing conflict.

In the past week, Japanese and Middle Eastern officials have been in touch to address the crisis, which, according to United Nations estimates, has resulted in more than 5,000 fatalities and approximately 15,000 injuries. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa has requested Iran's assistance in defusing the conflict. Iran is widely perceived as backing Hamas through its proxy, the Hezbollah militant group, which holds considerable power in Lebanon. Japan's tactical advantage stems from the strong relationship between Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, coupled with assets frozen due to US sanctions, providing Tokyo with additional leverage over Tehran.