Japan voices 'deep concern' over Israeli ground operations in Lebanon

Japan's Foreign Ministry on Wednesday expressed deep concern over ongoing Israeli ground operations in southern Lebanon, calling for respect of Beirut's sovereignty and territorial integrity amid rising civilian casualties. "Japan is deeply concerned that attacks between Israel and Hezbollah have resulted in casualties among civilians and medical personnel," the ministry said.

The ministry noted the destruction of critical infrastructure across the region, adding that Tokyo is alarmed by the persistence of ground operations despite international calls for restraint.

Calls for ceasefire compliance

Tokyo urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities and comply with international humanitarian law, stressing the need to exercise "maximum restraint" and implement relevant UN Security Council resolutions. "We express deep concern that these operations continue," the statement said, calling once again for Lebanon's territorial integrity to be respected.

Truce violations persist

Japan strongly called on all parties to "fully" implement the ceasefire agreement to ensure regional peace and stability. Israel has continued near-daily airstrikes and ground offensives in Lebanon despite a truce that took effect on April 17 and was later extended until early July.