Nagasaki will not invite Israel to this year’s peace ceremony marking the 1945 atomic bombing, aiming to maintain a “peaceful and somber atmosphere,” Mayor Shiro Suzuki announced Wednesday. This decision contrasts with Hiroshima’s approach, where Israel’s invitation to their ceremony remains unaffected despite calls for exclusion.
Security Concerns Cited for Exclusion
Mayor Suzuki emphasized that the exclusion was motivated by security concerns rather than political reasons. He stated that the decision was made to ensure the ceremony could proceed smoothly and respectfully honor the victims of the atomic bombings.
Hiroshima Maintains Invitation Amid Calls for Exclusion
Hiroshima, which experienced the first atomic bombing, will host its peace ceremony with representatives from 115 countries and the European Union. Hiroshima officials have chosen to retain Israel’s invitation, despite pressure from activists and survivors advocating for its exclusion due to Israel’s recent military actions in Gaza.
Israel Responds with Regret
Israel’s Ambassador to Japan, Gilad Cohen, expressed regret over Nagasaki’s decision, calling it a “wrong message to the world.” Cohen defended Israel’s military actions as necessary for self-defense against terrorist organizations, rejecting accusations of breaching international humanitarian law.
Hiroshima’s Approach to Other Nations
Hiroshima authorities have faced criticism for excluding Russia and Belarus from their event since 2022 due to the invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, Hiroshima’s stance on Israel remains unchanged. A spokesperson from Hiroshima clarified that their policy is to invite all countries, with exceptions made only for specific geopolitical reasons.
Ceremony Details
The Nagasaki peace ceremony will be held at Peace Park on August 9, commemorating the day the second atomic bomb was dropped on Japan, three days after Hiroshima. The city had previously expressed concerns about hosting Israel, leading to the decision to hold off on extending an invitation.