U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass addressed Japanese lawmakers at the inaugural meeting of the Japanese Parliamentary Israel Allies Caucus, expressing gratitude for their support of Israel and efforts to end the conflict in Gaza.
Speaking at the House of Councillors, Ambassador Glass reiterated the United States' stance that Hamas should not have a role in any future Palestinian state. He referred to the events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas killed over 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages during an attack on southern Israel.
“Hamas — and Hamas alone — is responsible for the cycle of poverty and despair in Gaza,” Ambassador Glass said. “The United States deeply appreciates Japan’s focus on humanitarian assistance for the people of Gaza. And we share your determination to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians and ensure that aid reaches those most in need.”
He continued: “The United States firmly believes that the Palestinian people deserve a future free of Hamas and its poisonous ideology of violence. We must build on the historic achievements of the Abraham Accords. These agreements show what is possible when nations choose cooperation over conflict.”
Ambassador Glass also commented on a recent non-binding resolution passed by the UN General Assembly supporting a two-state solution, saying it rewarded Hamas and undermined diplomatic efforts to free remaining hostages and reduce suffering in Gaza.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States continues its efforts to lay the foundations for a durable peace,” he said. “But it must be a peace with both Israel and the Palestinian people as its focus. Any unilateral attempt to recognize a Palestinian state — without Israel at the table — threatens our work to build a future of peaceful coexistence.”
Glass highlighted Japan's role as an important advocate for peace and stability globally, stating that Japan could help shape a new era in Middle East relations.
The Japanese Parliamentary Israel Allies Caucus was formed under the Japan-Israel Parliamentary Friendship League and is part of an international network present in 62 countries.