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”

I thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland and USG Griffiths for their updates.
 
The past two weeks have been painful, tumultuous, and devastating. The situation in the Middle East is at a dangerous point where the risk of escalation is extremely high.
 
We unequivocally condemn the terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants in Israel on October 7, where more than 1,300 were killed, 3,600 wounded, and nearly 200 taken hostage, overwhelmingly civilians. Japan demands the immediate release of the hostages without conditions.
 
We are particularly appalled by the destruction of Al-Ahli Arab Hospital yesterday where hundreds died. We feel strong indignation at the tremendous damage and harm done to innocent civilians. Attacks against hospitals or civilians cannot be justified on any grounds. Japan expresses its heartfelt sympathy to the victims and injured and offers its condolences to the bereaved families.
 
It is vital that humanitarian aid reach the people of Gaza. Humanitarian corridors must be established so humanitarian actors can safely deliver food, water, fuel, and medicine to the population. We echo the Secretary-General’s call on Israel to ensure rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid to reach those relying on this assistance for their survival.
 
The risk of spillover both regionally and globally is real. We must choose a path that will bring us closer to peace, security and stability.
 
In this vein, Japan welcomes President Biden’s visit to Israel as well as engagements by other players, including the Secretary-General and the UN agencies, that could urgently address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. We also encourage regional and other players to continue their efforts in negotiating the release of the hostages.
 
For our part, Japan is engaging with other Council members to find common ground and take actions towards alleviating the plight of people in Gaza and preventing further escalation. Whatever the position of respective Member States toward the peace process in the Middle East, one thing remains clear: no one wants to witness further loss of lives of the innocent. We must act without further delay.
 
I thank you.