[Palestine] Press Conference – Calling for a Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza and Peace in Palestine
Peace Winds Japan, in collaboration with organizations providing support in Palestine and the Gaza Strip, has issued a statement calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and peace in Palestine, and will hold a press conference on March 28.
Statement Calling for a Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza and Peace in Palestine
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has claimed at least 48,000 lives. On January 19, 2025, the first stage of a ceasefire was achieved, but it is not permanent. The release of hostages, attacks, and deliveries of essential supplies have become bargaining chips, and the ceasefire is on the brink of collapse. We are outraged that innocent lives are being manipulated by some in power.
The second stage of the ceasefire, which was supposed to start 16 days later, includes a permanent ceasefire, release of both Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees, and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. These have not been achieved. On March 4, 2025, Israel declared the resumption of attacks, citing the failure to release hostages, with U.S. support under the Trump administration.
As an organization in Japan that has supported Palestinian peace, we strongly call for the unconditional release of hostages and detainees, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and a permanent ceasefire.
Since the Gaza ceasefire, attacks by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank have intensified. Over 40,000 civilians have been displaced, with 555 killed, including 102 children, in 2024-2025. Civilians are the most affected. We urge the Japanese government to continue diplomatic efforts toward peace and to ensure the protection of lives and human rights in Palestine.
References:
- Gaza Impact Snapshot (March 4, 2025)
- BBC Article on the Ceasefire Deal (March 3, 2025)
- West Bank Monthly Snapshot (January 2025)
We will Hold a Press Conference to announce the Statement Above.
This year marks the 77th anniversary of the establishment of Israel and the creation of Palestinian refugees. In remembrance of the 1976 large-scale land seizures by Israel, which resulted in casualties during protests, and ahead of “Land Day” on March 30, when actions will be held around the world, we hope this will be an opportunity to reflect on Palestine. We aim to consider what can be done for the Palestinian people to enjoy equal rights with the people of Israel and to live freely.
Press Conference on “Call for a Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza and Peace in Palestine”
- Date/Time: March 28, 2025 (Friday) from 10:30 to 11:45 (Reception starts at 10:15)
- Location: Japan Press Center Building, 9F Conference Room, 2-2-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Program:
- Introduction and explanation of the Gaza ceasefire movement
- Report on the situation in Gaza (NGO report from the field)
- Report on the situation in the West Bank and messages from the field
- Q&A session
- Photo session
Organizer: Action Committee for Peace in Palestine
(Participating organizations, listed in alphabetical order):
- NPO APLA
- NPO Ayus Buddhist International Cooperation Network
- Alter Trade Japan Co., Ltd.
- NPO Japan International Volunteer Center
- NPO Palshik
- NPO Peace Winds Japan
For inquiries regarding this event: NPO Japan International Volunteer Center (JVC) Website info@ngo-jvc.net / 03-3834-2388 (Contact: Sakae, Imai)