Anti-Muslim sentiment is reportedly increasing in Japan following the Israeli attacks on Gaza, according to Kayyim Naoki Yamamoto, a member of Marmara University Institute of Turkic Studies.
Yamamoto noted a surge in anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian sentiments in Japan since the attacks began on October 7, 2023. He highlighted a rise in hate speech against Muslims, correlating with the growing support for far-right parties in the country.
Xenophobia, which has long existed in Japan, has now manifested as anti-Muslim sentiment in the wake of the Gaza attacks. Yamamoto warned that Japan is undergoing a negative transformation, with xenophobia and anti-Muslim sentiments intensifying over the past 15 years.
He criticized the Japanese government for overlooking the escalating anti-Muslim sentiment and cautioned against the potential consequences of ignoring this issue.
Yamamoto attributed the increase in anti-Muslim sentiment to the alignment of Japanese political and social views with those of the United States, particularly regarding the Gaza conflict. He mentioned that the pro-Israel stance adopted by the US has influenced Japanese sentiment, leading to anti-Muslim campaigns supported by pro-Israel lobbies.
The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, has further exacerbated tensions. Yamamoto emphasized the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to prevent further escalation of anti-Muslim sentiment in Japan.
