Japan Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

Japan is concerned about the escalation of the situation due to Israel's decision to commence ground operations in southern Lebanon and is calling for an immediate ceasefire between the conflicting parties. This was announced by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.

“Japan expresses serious concern. We call for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and the Lebanese Shiite organization Hezbollah to prevent further deterioration of the situation, and we also urge measures to prevent civilian casualties,” he stated.

Hayashi emphasized the necessity of finding a diplomatic solution and adhering to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in August 2006, which calls for a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Previously, the Israeli army announced that it had commenced a limited ground operation in border areas of southern Lebanon. Arab television channels are reporting on Israeli airstrikes and shelling in adjacent areas.