In response, the Japanese hotel issued a pro-Palestine, anti-genocide statement: “Our guesthouse’s “Pledge of Non-involvement in War Crimes” applies not on the basis of “nationality,” but rather to individuals who have belonged to a military organization that has been determined by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to have committed war crimes. Therefore, this policy does not constitute “discrimination based on nationality.” The very definition of “discrimination” is the unequal treatment of individuals based on factors beyond their personal control. To give an example, subjecting someone to unjust violence, confiscating their home and land, denying them legal protection, or detaining them indefinitely without trial simply because they are Palestinian clearly constitutes “discrimination.” In contrast, joining a military — regardless of whether it is through conscription or voluntary enlistment — falls within the scope of personal choice and responsibility. Responding differently to individuals based on such choices is not discrimination. This is especially true when the commander-in-chief of that military has been internationally indicted for war crimes. In such cases, differing treatment is even more justifiable. If Israeli nationals are more likely to be asked to sign the pledge, it is a consequence of the policies and actions of the Israeli government. If this results in disadvantages for Israeli citizens, the responsibility lies with their government. This is the natural and logical conclusion. Should an individual involved in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks attempt to stay at our guesthouse, we would likewise ask them to sign the same pledge. The fact that Hamas committed war crimes and whether an individual Israeli soldier is a war criminal are entirely separate issues. Using the former to justify the latter is nothing more than a typical fallacy called “ignoratio elenchi.” It was the ICC that determined the Israeli military committed war crimes. If there is disagreement with this, then it is the duty of Prime Minister Netanyahu and Former Defense Minister Gallant — who have been issued arrest warrants — to appear before the ICC and assert their innocence in court. This is the appropriate course of action for those who claim to uphold international law. While we do not represent Japan or Kyoto, this is our personal and principled stance that, at the very least, we do not believe that those who disregard international law and humanitarian values are entitled to receive “hospitality and respect.” We sincerely hope that the day will come when we can wholeheartedly welcome Israeli guests. For that, we respectfully urge the Israeli government to immediately cease its disregard for international law and to adopt policies grounded in humanitarian principles.” The hotel’s action comes as global awareness grows over Israel’s brutal assaults, especially the ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza since October 7, 2023. Israeli forces have killed and wounded over 168,000 Palestinians, the majority women and children. More than 11,000 others remain missing under the rubble. Meanwhile, more details are being exposed about Israeli horrific torture against Palestinian detainees. Several reports confirmed that Israeli doctors in detention facilities are involved in forms of torture, including unnecessary amputations without anesthesia. Human rights organizations, activists, and millions around the world now view Israel’s actions as crimes against humanity. The hotel’s form cited Article 8 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. It demanded that guests declare they have not committed war crimes such as attacks on civilians, torture, rape, or ethnic cleansing. In June 2024, another hotel in Kyoto reportedly canceled a booking by an Israeli settler due to suspected links to the Israeli army. Since Israel’s genocide in Gaza started, calls for boycotting Israel-linked institutions have grown worldwide. Students, workers, and businesses have joined the movement demanding full sanctions on Israel until it ends its occupation and war crimes.Deeply concerned by the discriminatory incident that took place in April at Wind Villa guesthouse in Kyoto, where an Israeli tourist was asked to sign a declaration stating he had not committed war crimes.
— Gilad Cohen ???️ (@GiladCohen_) May 10, 2025
This is a blatant act of discrimination against Israeli citizens and an…
