Statement by H.E. Ambassador SHINO Mitsuko, Deputy 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”

Mr. President,
 
I thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland for his briefing.
 
The perpetual cycle of violence and instability in Palestine has continued unabated and has even intensified since the beginning of this year.
 
Japan is seriously concerned by the recent violent attack that occurred in the Jenin refugee camp on March 7, which resulted in several deaths and injuries. This follows a series of attacks including the one in Jenin this January and in Nablus recently.

Moreover, Israel’s continued settlement activities in the West Bank remain deeply disturbing. The Israeli Government must stop its settlement activities, demolitions, and evictions, as these constitute violations of international law and go against relevant Security Council resolutions.
 
At the same time, we condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the killing of two Israelis in Huwara on February 26, as well as shootings of Israelis in several cities. We also condemn the rampage against Palestinians in Huwara carried out by some Israeli settlers. This pattern of violence must not continue.
 
Japan calls for an immediate cessation of violence and for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any unilateral actions that could escalate the situation further, in accordance with the Security Council PRST and the Aqaba Joint Communiqué, both adopted in February. In this context, Japan is seriously concerned and disturbed by Israeli Finance Minister’s provocative remark on Sunday, and resolutely reject it.

The international community has been making intensified efforts to ease tensions. Japan welcomes the holding of last weekend's five-party meeting in Sharm al-Shaykh and appreciates the efforts made by the parties concerned to stabilize the situation. For Japan’s part, Prime Minister Kishida expressed concern over unilateral measures taken by both sides and conveyed Japan’s readiness to contribute to the easing of tensions toward the realization of a two-state solution in his telephone conversation with Israeli President Herzog on March 14.
 
Japan has consistently supported the peaceful coexistence of Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security. Japan calls on all parties to engage in meaningful constructive dialogue. Direct negotiations remain the only viable path towards peace and stability in the region.
 
I thank you.