Arab News Japan
TOKYO: In the midst of a bustling Shibuya district, while a large demonstration in support of Gaza was underway, actor FURUSAWA Yusuke stood alone, a beacon of protest, on a street nearby, passionately voicing his unwavering support for Palestine.
“For the past six months, I have been demonstrating alone,” he shared with Arab News Japan. “While the situation may not be improving for the Palestinians in Gaza, the outpouring of solidarity worldwide has been overwhelming. This gives me the strength to continue.”
“This is just my tiny voice, but it’s not a waste of time to join hands with all kinds of foreigners and say something with a little emotion. When they say ‘thank you’ in tears, you realize it’s not a futile gesture to raise your voice. I think it is important for people in a democratic society to raise their voices and respect basic human rights.”
Furusawa pointed out that Japan’s foreign minister has yet to convey to Israel in the strongest terms that its atrocities in Gaza is a clear violation of international law and that the war on Gaza should be stopped immediately.
“As a Japanese citizen, it’s frustrating to see our foreign minister’s inaction,” he expressed. “When my fellow countrymen show indifference, I feel powerless. But I refuse to stand idle. We all need to raise our voices, one by one. It’s our duty as citizens of a democratic nation.”
“We need to criticize Israel and do it firmly.”