In a rare expression of concern, Japan’s Crown Prince Fumihito has conveyed his profound distress witnessing the suffering of children in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip.
Speaking with journalists earlier this week, the crown prince remarked, “My heart ached in the extreme” as he reflected on the numerous children who became victims amid the war in Gaza, Anadolu Agency reported.
The remarks were made public on Thursday, coinciding with his 58th birthday.
During a discussion with reporters about notable events of the past year, Fumihito lamented both Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the conflict between the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel in Gaza.
Notably, around 6,150 children lost their lives in the Israeli bombardment of Gaza since October 7, as reported by health authorities in the enclave.
According to Anadolu Agency, Ismail al-Thawabta, head of the Gaza media office, stated on Wednesday, “There are about 6,500 missing individuals, including more than 4,700 children and women, either under the rubble or their fate is still unknown.”
These harrowing details underscore the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
It’s crucial to highlight that Japan, despite strongly criticising Hamas, has committed to providing approximately $75 million in humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
This commitment was emphasised by Anadolu Agency in their coverage of the situation.
The Japanese Crown Prince’s rare comments bring attention to the human toll of conflicts, particularly on the vulnerable, echoing the concerns shared by many across the globe.
