Japan is advising its citizens to leave Lebanon as tensions escalate in the region, with the government preparing military planes for a potential evacuation.
This move comes as Israeli airstrikes have killed hundreds in Lebanon, particularly in Hezbollah-dominated areas, with the militant group retaliating through a series of rocket attacks.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, speaking on Friday, confirmed that the government is actively assessing the situation for Japanese nationals residing in Lebanon.
“We’re currently checking the safety of Japanese citizens living in Lebanon, as well as urging them to leave the country while regular commercial flights remain in operation,” he stated.
This reflects Japan’s commitment to ensuring the security of its citizens amid growing instability.
In response to the escalating violence, Japan’s Defense Ministry later announced that Air Self-Defense Force aircraft have been deployed to Jordan and Greece, ready to assist if an evacuation becomes necessary.
The military standby involves C-2 transport planes, capable of airlifting the estimated 50 Japanese nationals currently in Lebanon.
This action highlights Japan’s preparedness to act swiftly if the situation deteriorates further. Media outlets such as Kyodo News, quoting government sources, have reported these precautionary measures.
Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa also voiced concern over the rising hostilities. In a statement delivered on Wednesday, she remarked that Tokyo is “strongly concerned about the escalation of tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.”
Kamikawa emphasized Japan’s diplomatic stance, urging restraint from all involved parties. “Japan strongly urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint to avoid further escalation,” she added.
Despite international calls for calm, Israel has refused a proposal for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon, pledging to continue its military campaign against Hezbollah.
This ongoing conflict underscores the critical nature of Japan’s decision to prioritize the safety of its citizens in the region.
