We'll not deal with terrorists, says Japan after IS kidnap citizens

Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe

Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe

Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe
Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe

The Japanese government said Tuesday it will not give in to “terrorism” after a video emerged in which Islamic militants threatened to kill two Japanese unless a $200 million ransom was paid.

“Our country’s stance — contributing to the fight against terrorism without giving in — remains unchanged,” chief government spokesman Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo.

“The video contains threats to murder two people who appear to be Japanese nationals,” said Suga. “We are checking if it’s credible.

“Taking people hostage is unforgivable and I feel strong anger.

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“The Japanese government is determined to do its best to secure the release of the Japanese as soon as possible.”

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is on a tour of the Middle East and is expected to address the press around 0800 GMT, will cancel part of his visit, Suga said, although a summit with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas would go ahead.

“The prime minister will seek cooperation on this issue, when he meets (Abbas) and government officials.

“The government will dispatch State Minister for Foreign Affairs Yasuhide Nakayama to Amman in Jordan to give instructions,” he said. Nakayama is deputy foreign minister.

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