Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa is scheduled to visit Qatar and Bahrain later this month as part of Japan’s diplomatic efforts to help ease tensions in West Asia. The visit, planned for 28-29 August, will include meetings with key leaders in both countries, according to diplomatic sources.
This visit comes amid growing concerns over escalating violence in the region, particularly after the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran late last month. Iran, a long-time ally of the Palestinian resistance movement, has accused Israel of carrying out the attack, with retaliatory attacks expected from the Axis of Resistance.
Qatar, which maintains relations with Iran and back-channel communication with Israel, is seen as a crucial mediator in the ongoing Gaza war, while Bahrain, as the current chair of the Arab League, plays a significant role in regional diplomacy.
Japan, heavily reliant on West Asian oil, has traditionally sought to balance its relationships between Israel and Muslim countries. Kamikawa’s visit aims to reaffirm Tokyo’s commitment to regional peace and stability.
In related developments, Kamikawa spoke with Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani by phone on Thursday, emphasising the importance of maintaining peace in the region. Kamikawa urged Iran to act “rationally” and to encourage restraint among its allies.
