April 18, 2024
I thank His Excellency Mr. BORG, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of the Republic of Malta, for his initiative. My appreciation also goes to the Secretary-General for his briefing.
Mr. President,
The conflict which started with the attack by Hamas and others last October has continued for more than six months. First, let me express my heartfelt condolences to all the victims, including women, children, and humanitarian aid workers, and their families.
The world does not want to see the loss of lives and the cycle of violence anymore. Yet the conflict endures. I sincerely hope continued discussions and a show of will in the Security Council will lead to a change in behavior by the parties concerned and an improvement of the situation.
Last month, this Council adopted Resolution 2728, which demanded an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Japan has urged all parties to act in good faith based on this resolution.
Japan takes note of the improvement to a certain extent in the environment surrounding humanitarian assistance, including humanitarian access. However, further effort needs to be made for a drastic change in the catastrophic situation on the ground. We have not seen a ceasefire realized yet, either.
Mr. President,
Countries concerned have made serious efforts outside this chamber to achieve the release of the hostages and a ceasefire. I believe those who serve best should be honored most. The Security Council must foster and encourage these efforts.
A full-scale military operation in the densely populated area of Rafah would be a disaster that would result in many more casualties. Such an outcome is unacceptable.
Mr. President,
We are now witnessing an extremely dangerous situation that could have devastating consequences for the entire region and the world.
Japan is deeply concerned about Iran’s attack against Israel, which increases insecurity in the Middle East. We strongly condemn such an escalation.
Japan has been urging the parties concerned to calm down the situation and reiterates its determination to continue to make all necessary diplomatic efforts in order to prevent any further deterioration.
Further, the spiral of violence between Israel and Hezbollah is continuing, and attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden by the Houthis are impeding the free and safe passage of vessels.
Mr. President,
To end the current tragedy and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East, there is no solution other than peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine. To reach this goal, mutual trust is indispensable.
Building trust is not an easy task. It will not only require time to heal the existing hatred and grief, but also a clear mutual commitment toward confidence-building. Given the situation in front of us, it may even seem an almost impossible mission.
However, Japan will not give up and will continuously contribute to the realization of a two-state solution through its own initiatives and efforts. And Japan will remain an “escort runner” for Palestine, Israel and all the people living in the Middle East, in good times and bad. I thank you.