Japanese Defense Minister Jin Nakatani announced Wednesday that Japan has initiated a medical evacuation program for Palestinian casualties from Gaza.

Key Details:

1. First Evacuees:

   • Two Palestinian patients to arrive in Japan (Thursday and Friday)

   • Treatment at Tokyo's Central Hospital of the Self-Defense Forces

   • WHO-coordinated medical assistance

2. Transfer Process:

   • Patients currently hospitalized in Egypt

   • Injured during Israeli military operations in Gaza (since October 2023)

   • Temporary treatment only (no residency permitted)

3. Program Background:

   • Japan's first Palestinian medical evacuation since Gaza conflict began

   • Joint coordination with Egyptian government and WHO

   • Considering additional limited patient transfers

Official Statements:

► Defense Minister Nakatani:
"We approved this transfer of casualties from Egyptian hospitals in response to Gaza's severe humanitarian situation at WHO's request."

► Japanese MoD Announcement:
"Japan will continue exploring medical assistance options while cooperating with Egypt to provide adequate care."