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”

Madam President,

I thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland and Ms. Tania Hary for their briefings.

The most important recent development is the ceasefire between Israel and Gaza last week, ending days of violence where many had been killed or wounded. Japan commends Egypt, along with Qatar, Lebanon, and the United States, for their roles in brokering the ceasefire, and we are encouraged that it has largely held. The Security Council should call on all sides to observe the ceasefire and should maintain its efforts to ensure that this agreement will improve regional peace and security in a sustainable manner.

The number of casualties that we have seen this year is totally unacceptable. We urge all parties to implement the commitments outlined in the Communiques that came out of the 5-party talks in Aqaba and Sharm El-Sheikh. The Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority must refrain from provocations, including incitement to violence, and must work together in a constructive manner.

Madam President,

Japan remains one of the largest donors to UNRWA. This year we are commemorating the 70th anniversary of Japan’s partnership with the Agency. It was in 1953, even before joining the United Nations, that we made our first financial contribution to the Agency at a time when Japan was still struggling to overcome the ravages of war. Last week, we hosted an event where UNRWA’s Deputy Commissioner General, Ms. Leni Stenseth, emphasized the crucial role that the Agency plays in providing fundamental social services, including health and education, to Palestine refugees.

With UNRWA facing a serious funding shortfall, Japan highlights the importance of the pledging conference that will take place on 2 June, and calls on all Member States to support the Agency in continuing its essential work.

Madam President,

We condemn ongoing unacceptable unilateral acts by both parties. Japan calls on Israel to immediately stop settlement expansion, demolitions, forced transfers, evictions, settler violence, and military incursions. Japan also calls on Palestinian militant groups to stop attacks on Israeli civilians and to refrain from attacking Israel with rockets.

For Japan’s part, Prime Minister Kishida recently held a summit meeting in Tokyo with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. The two leaders stressed the need for both parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid unilateral actions.

Ultimately, this conflict will only be resolved by direct negotiations between the parties to achieve a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace, security, and mutual respect. Japan supports every effort to achieve this goal.

I thank you, Madam President.