Statement by H.E. Ambassador MIKANAGI Tomohiro, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the GA Plenary Meeting on Agenda Item 123: “Strengthening of the United Nations system” (EOV after the vote)

 
Thank you, Mr. President.
 
I also thank Norway for its initiative.
 
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is indescribable and getting even worse as we speak in this Assembly now. The life-saving assistance by the United Nations and its specialized agencies is crucial.
 
However, they are working under extremely difficult conditions.
 
Especially, UNRWA, the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza, is at the brink of collapse due to the bills adopted by the Israeli Knesset. And, time is running out before their  implementation.

Against this backdrop, we believe it could be helpful to seek clarification, with the authority of the ICJ, focusing on Israel’s humanitarian obligations in relation to the United Nations, other international organizations and third States engaging in humanitarian assistance both under IHL and the relevant conventions and agreements.
 
That is why we voted in favor of the draft resolution.
 
This vote also underscores our support for other parts of the draft resolution, including the call for UNRWA to fully implement the recommendations of the Colonna report.
 
Having said that, we wish to state our principled position: the primary means to resolve the conflict between Israel and Palestine should be a negotiated settlement between the parties. Reliance on the ICJ in this manner may not be the best option available at the moment for achieving this goal. We voted yes today, because the question to the Court is narrowly defined to focus on humanitarian aspects.
 
In this regard, Japan is encouraged by the progress of the talks toward a deal that would achieve an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages and expansion of aid delivery at scale throughout Gaza.
 
We support the tireless efforts of the mediators and urge both parties to show their political will to end the agony of this conflict.

Lastly, Japan has contributed approximately USD 130 million to alleviate the suffering of the desperate Palestinians since October 7 last year. We will continue to play our part in cooperation with the UN and other partners.
 
I thank you.