NAGASAKI STANDS FIRM: EXCLUSION OF ISRAEL FROM WWII COMMEMORATION SPARKS CONTROVERSY

Thu 08 August 2024:

In a bold stand against the pressure from the Group of Seven (G7) nations, the Nagasaki local government has upheld its decision to exclude Israel from an upcoming event honoring the victims of the US nuclear bombing during World War II.

Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki clarified that the decision was “not politically motivated,” as reported by Tokyo-based Kyodo News. He firmly stated, “There would be no change to the decision,” highlighting the government’s resolution to refrain from inviting Israeli officials to its annual memorial event scheduled for Friday in southwestern Nagasaki.

In light of Suzuki’s announcement, representatives from the G7 nations—including the US, the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the EU—are considering boycotting the event. Their attendance hinges on whether Israel receives an invitation, which Nagasaki has resolutely declined.

Interestingly, Japan, a G7 member and the nation that endured the devastating nuclear attacks, has remained silent on the matter, leaving many observers curious about its stance.

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The twin cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki have commemorated these somber events annually since World War II. The US dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, followed by Nagasaki on August 9, resulting in a staggering death toll of at least 140,000 by the year’s end. This year marks the 79th anniversary of these tragic occurrences.

Suzuki’s decision has found considerable backing, particularly among the younger generation.

While Japan does not officially recognize a Palestinian state, it accommodates the General Mission of Palestine in Tokyo. Notably, the deputy chief of the Palestinian mission is set to attend the Nagasaki memorial.

Addressing the reasons behind his refusal to invite Israel, Suzuki pointed to “security reasons,” expressing his desire for the event to be “conducted smoothly under a solemn atmosphere.” He added, “I will continue to persevere and ask for understanding of the decision as often as necessary.”

On a contrasting note, peace activists organized demonstrations in Hiroshima, protesting the local government’s invitation to Israeli officials for its event. The Pro-Palestine demonstrators criticized Hiroshima for what they perceive as double standards in its handling of international conflicts, especially concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israeli military actions in Gaza.

Furthermore, since February 2022, Japan has opted not to invite Russia and Belarus to such memorial events in response to Moscow’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, illustrating a broader pattern of geopolitical considerations influencing these commemorations.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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