Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar began an official visit to Japan this morning (Tuesday), marking the first visit by an Israeli foreign minister to the country in 15 years. This visit is considered strategically important, with the goal of strengthening cooperation with Tokyo — one of the most influential countries in the global economic, legal, and diplomatic arenas.
Honored to meet Japanese FM Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo. I conveyed our deep appreciation for Japan’s support after October 7th. Israel and Japan are two ancient nations, with glorious traditions and promising futures. I look forward to further strengthening our relations!… pic.twitter.com/XtXPoPSOQ4
— Gideon Sa’ar | גדעון סער (@gidonsaar) May 13, 2025
Japan, a member of the G7 and the world’s fourth-largest economy, was among the countries that expressed clear solidarity with Israel following Hamas’s brutal massacre on October 7. It recognized Israel’s right to self-defense, imposed sanctions on senior Hamas officials, and called for the immediate release of all hostages.
Public Diplomacy and Independence Day Celebrations
During the visit, Minister Sa’ar is expected to meet with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and hold a series of additional high-level meetings with top members of the Japanese government. These discussions will focus on strengthening diplomatic and security relations, expanding technological and economic cooperation, and reinforcing Japanese support for Israel’s positions on the international stage.
Alongside these diplomatic engagements, Sa’ar will give extended interviews to the Japanese media and hold a special press conference aimed at amplifying Israel’s narrative in the local press — particularly in relation to the legitimacy of Israeli actions in Gaza and the issue of the hostages.
As part of the visit, Sa’ar will deliver remarks at a reception celebrating the 77th anniversary of the State of Israel’s independence, to be held at the residence of the Israeli ambassador in Tokyo. He will also meet with members of the Japan–Israel Parliamentary Friendship Association, which works to promote cooperation between the two countries.
