Japan’s Nagasaki Invites Palestine but Not Israel to Annual Peace Ceremony

In a notable move, Nagasaki city officials have decided not to invite the Israeli ambassador to Japan to this year's annual peace ceremony, instead sending a letter to the Israeli embassy calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. 

This decision comes amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the region, reflecting the city's sensitive approach to current global issues.

Every year on August 9, Nagasaki commemorates the anniversary of the US nuclear attack in 1945, which resulted in the deaths of 74,000 people. 

This solemn event typically invites representatives from dozens of countries and territories to honor the victims of the atomic bombing. 

However, Mayor Shiro Suzuki announced on Monday that the invitation to Israel has been put on hold due to the evolving situation in Gaza.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated nearly eight months ago following a Hamas attack, has significantly impacted the decision. 

Concerns over potential protests and disruptions during the memorial ceremony have influenced the city’s cautious stance. 

Mayor Suzuki emphasized the need for the event to proceed "safe and smooth," given the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza and the prevailing public opinion in the international community.

In contrast, Nagasaki has extended an invitation to the Palestinian envoy, maintaining a tradition of inviting both sides, as confirmed by local officials. 

This gesture underscores the city's desire to address the humanitarian crisis and advocate for peace. 

Meanwhile, Russia and Belarus have also not been invited to the ceremony due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, further highlighting the city’s stance on international peace and stability.

Nagasaki has communicated its position to the Israeli embassy through a letter calling for an immediate ceasefire. 

Mayor Suzuki noted that if the situation permits, an invitation to Israel could still be issued swiftly in the coming months. 

The Israeli embassy has not yet responded to this development.

The annual peace ceremony in Nagasaki’s Peace Park includes solemn activities such as ringing bells, releasing doves, and holding prayer ceremonies for the bombing victims. 

Hiroshima, which holds a similar yearly ceremony on August 6 to remember the 140,000 people killed by the first atomic bomb, has invited Israel but also called for a ceasefire and dialogue in its invitation letter. 

Notably, Hiroshima has never invited a Palestinian representative to its ceremony, highlighting a difference in approach between the two cities.

Japan’s unique history as the only country to have experienced atomic bombings in wartime places it in a distinctive position to advocate for peace and dialogue. 

The decisions made by Nagasaki and Hiroshima reflect their commitment to fostering global harmony and addressing contemporary conflicts through diplomatic means.