Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing Agenda item “The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question”

Madam President,
 
Japan welcomes the adoption of the PRST as a united message of the Security Council.
 
I thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland and UNRWA Deputy Commissioner-General Leni Stenseth for their informative briefings.
 
Since the beginning of this year, there have been a number of developments that risk an escalation of violence in the occupied Palestinian territories. International community has been intensifying its efforts to ease tensions. On our part, at the telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu on 13 February, Prime Minister Kishida expressed concern about the rising tensions between Israel and Palestine and the unilateral measures taken by both sides.
 
It is troubling to witness the deteriorating security situation in the West Bank. The dangerous trajectory of violence from last year continues its alarming trend, including in the recent attack by Israeli forces against the Jenin Refugee Camp, which led to the highest number of Palestinians killed in a single operation in the West Bank since 2005, according to a report by OCHA.
 
Japan also calls for the reversal of the Israeli government's recent announcement to declare nine settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank as legal under Israeli law as well as plans to advance new settlement construction. Israeli settlement activities are in violation of international law and must end immediately.
 
At the same time, we condemn terror attacks in all its forms and manifestations. Recent escalatory actions committed by Palestinians in Jerusalem such as the terrorist attack outside a synagogue and the car ramming into a bus stop is deeply deplorable as it only intensifies violence in the area.
 
As the situation surrounding Israel and Palestine witnesses continued clashes and violence resulting in a number of casualties, Japan calls for refraining from unilateral actions that exacerbate tensions.
 
Madam President,
 
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Japan-UNRWA partnership. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate Japan’s enduring commitment to assisting UNRWA to ensure that Palestinian refugees continue to receive lifesaving assistance and basic services.
 
In conclusion, there is no alternative to direct negotiations between the parties. Japan expresses its strong determination to revive the prospect of a two state solution and achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace and stability in the Middle East.
 
I thank you.