Statement by Mr. KAWASAKI Masaki, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, on Agenda Item 50: Report of the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories, Fourth Committee, Seventy-Ninth Session of the United Nations General Assembly

 
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
 
Last year, when my delegation delivered a statement on this agenda item, it was one month after the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas and others. At that time, we were already witnessing the worsening humanitarian situation and the appalling level of devastation in Gaza.
 
Now, more than a year has passed. The conflict is still raging: civilian casualties still mounting, hostages still held captive, massive displacement still recurring, and infrastructure like hospitals still being targeted and destroyed.
 
Most alarmingly, the amount of aid flow into the Strip last month hit the lowest ever since the conflict began, and famine is imminent, especially in the north.
 
These are all unacceptable.
 
An urgent and sustainable solution is necessary. Japan reiterates its demand for an immediate ceasefire and release of all remaining hostages. Both parties must swiftly conclude the deal without any further delay.
 
We also amplify our demand that all parties strictly comply with international law including international humanitarian law. Civilians including aid workers must be protected. Rapid, safe and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief must be guaranteed. Starvation must not become a method of warfare. These are mandatory rules, not good practice.
Mr. Chair,
 
Beyond Gaza, the situation in the West Bank remains precarious.
 
Japan is deeply concerned about Israel’s settlement activities, which are in violation of international law and undermine the viability of a two-state solution.
 
We are also seriously concerned over continued extremist settler violence. In response, Japan introduced asset freeze measures against settlers involved in violent acts.
 
Again, the Government of Israel must immediately stop its settlement activities and take appropriate measures to prevent any further violence.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
A two-state solution will pave the way for a stable and durable peace for both Palestine and Israel. Japan maintains its steadfast support for Israel and a future independent Palestinian state living side by side in peace, security, and prosperity.
 
I thank you, Mr. Chair.