Kirk here with the following translation of an article that appeared in the Kumanichi on the 23rd.
https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASRBQ7HC9RBPTLVB001.html
— start ChatGPT translation — Demonstration Against the Invasion of the Gaza Strip, Calls for Peace and Humanitarian Support
On the 21st, there was a demonstration in Shimotori, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, demanding the halt of the ground invasion into the Gaza Strip, an area of the Palestinian Autonomous Region, which the Israeli army is preparing for. About 40 participants raised slogans such as “Oppose violence against Palestine” and “Provide humanitarian aid, not weapons,” advocating for peace.
The demonstration was organized by four individuals, including citizens and researchers interested in the Palestinian issue, who invited their acquaintances to participate. Muslims living in Kumamoto Prefecture also joined. They held a street gathering where each shared their thoughts.
Joshua Rickard, an associate professor on special assignment at Kumamoto University who researches the Palestinian issue, said that under the long-term blockade by Israel, residents of the Gaza Strip cannot adequately access electricity, water, and food. Many children are suffering from mental disorders. He asserted, “Their everyday life as humans has been taken away; it’s a human rights issue.”
Mana Kaikita (25) from Minami-ku, Kumamoto City, who participated, commented during an interview, “I was shocked to learn that many residents of the Gaza Strip are children.” She added, “Considering the large number of young people living in the Gaza Strip and the situation where missiles are being launched there, I wondered if there’s something we can do to help from as far away as Japan.” (By Kei Yoshida) — end of ChatGPT translation —
Personally, I share this concern for innocent civilians in Gaza. I would also like to express my concern for the innocent Israeli civilians who have lost loved ones and are suffering in various ways. Participants on this forum may have different opinions about the policy issues involved but I hope we can agree that we all want the carnage to stop.
