Tokyo – The Japanese government⁢ issued a strong ⁢condemnation‌ Wednesday of Israel‘s recent airstrike targeting ‌Hamas leaders ​in Doha,Qatar,asserting⁢ the action ⁣jeopardizes ongoing diplomatic efforts and​ regional security. The strike occurred on Tuesday and targeted ⁣top-level Hamas ⁢officials.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa ‌Hayashi, speaking at‍ a regular press conference in Tokyo, stated, “At a time⁤ when serious diplomatic efforts are ​underway by countries including Qatar to achieve a cease-fire in Gaza and secure the releases of hostages, Israel’s attack hinders those efforts, threatens Qatar’s sovereignty and security, ‍and endangers​ regional stability.” He⁣ further emphasized, “Japan strongly ​condemns” Israel’s actions.

Qatar plays a crucial role as a⁤ key mediator in ​peace negotiations between Hamas and⁤ Israel. The airstrike is viewed by Japan as ⁢a meaningful impediment to⁢ thes delicate talks.

The current conflict stems from ‌the October 2023 ⁢Hamas attack on israel,which resulted in hostages ⁣being ‌taken⁣ and triggered a ​ample Israeli military response. The ongoing hostilities have created a dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza ‍Strip, with ‌widespread ​reports of starvation ‌among ​the civilian population.