Wed Sep 24 05:38:27 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article suitable for publication:

**Summary:**

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed the UN General Assembly, indicating Japan’s imminent recognition of the State of Palestine. He criticized Israeli officials’ rejection of Palestinian statehood and warned of potential retaliatory measures if Israel continues actions hindering a two-state solution. This announcement comes amidst growing international recognition of Palestine following the Israeli offensive in Gaza, sparked by the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Ishiba emphasized the importance of a sustainable and peaceful Palestine, urging accountability in its governance. While a close ally of the US (which opposes recognition under current conditions), Japan joins a growing list of nations moving toward recognizing Palestinian statehood.
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**News Article:**

**Japan Signals Imminent Recognition of Palestine, Condemns Israeli Obstruction**

**United Nations, September 24, 2025** – Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has declared that Tokyo’s recognition of the State of Palestine is only a matter of time, delivering a sharp rebuke to recent statements from Israeli officials categorically rejecting Palestinian state-building. Addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Ishiba voiced his “strong indignation” at the Israeli position and warned of potential consequences if actions continue to obstruct a two-state solution.

“For our country, the question is not whether to recognize a Palestinian state, but when,” Ishiba stated, emphasizing that “continued unilateral actions by the Government of Israel can never be accepted.” He further cautioned, “If further actions are taken that obstruct the realisation of a two-state solution, Japan will be compelled to take new measures in response.”

Japan’s stance comes amidst a wave of international recognition for Palestine, with nearly 80% of UN member states now recognizing it, including recent moves by Britain, Canada and France. This shift follows the nearly two-year war in Gaza, triggered by the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.

The Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of 65,382 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry which the UN considers reliable. In contrast, the Hamas attack killed 1,219 Israelis, mostly civilians.

While a close ally of the United States, which under the Trump administration has opposed recognition of Palestine as rewarding Hamas, Japan’s position reflects a growing divergence within the international community. South Korea and Singapore are notable exceptions in Asia, having also stopped short of recognizing Palestine as a State.

Ishiba stressed the need for a sustainable and peaceful Palestine living alongside Israel. “What matters the most is that Palestine can exist in a sustainable manner, living side by side in peace with Israel,” he said. He also called on the Palestinian side to establish a system of governance that ensures accountability.

The Prime Minister’s statement marks a significant shift in Japan’s approach and adds further pressure on Israel to engage constructively in a two-state solution. The world is watching.

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