Jerusalem, 14 May, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar met Tuesday with Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi to discuss bilateral ties, regional issues, and Israeli captives held in Gaza.

Addressing the hostage crisis, Sa’ar noted both nations share painful experiences and welcomed Japan’s call for the immediate release of Israeli abductees. Sa’ar also expressed hope for the release of Japanese hostages abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. Hayashi also serves as Japan’s Minister in Charge of Abductee Affairs.

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