Japan deeply concerned over Gaza clashes after US embassy move to Jerusalem

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono expressed regret on Tuesday over the fatal clashes in Gaza in the wake of the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem.

In press statements, Kono said "It is extremely regrettable. We hope countries concerned will respond to the issue calmly."

"Japan did not participate in the opening ceremony of the US Embassy in Jerusalem, and there is no plans for the Japanese government to transfer our embassy to Jerusalem," he added.

Violent clashes which occurred on May 14 in Gaza between the Israeli security forces and Palestinian demonstrators protesting against the moving of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem caused more than 50 Palestinian deaths and left many others injured.

A statement released by the Foreign Ministry said "Japan is closely following the developments with concern."

Japan called on all parties concerned not to escalate the situation.

Japan believes that the issue should be resolved through efforts of both sides to build mutual trust and through negotiations between them.

Japan also stressed that all parties concerned need to continue efforts to achieve peace based on a two- state solution.