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”

Thank you, Madame President.
 
I thank Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland for his briefing.  
 
As we just heard from Mr. Wennesland, we have seen a significant surge of violence in the West Bank in the absence of a tangible peace process. Japan is deeply troubled over the operations by the Israeli forces, including the recent raid in Jericho, which led to the killing of two Palestinians, including a 16-year-old boy.
 
At the same time, we are shocked to learn the murder of an Israeli security guard who was shot by a Palestinian gunman in Tel Aviv earlier this month.  
 
Japan strongly condemns all acts of terror and the targeting of innocent people and recalls the importance of the protection of civilians, especially children. All the perpetrators of the heinous crimes must be held accountable.

The unilateral actions such as Israel’s illegal settlement activities, demolitions of Palestinian homes, and acts of terrorism by Palestinian militants only fuel tensions on the ground and bring us further away from a sustainable solution. 
 
We urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint and commit to de-escalation.  As we have repeatedly stressed, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be resolved through direct talks and negotiations among the parties. 

Madame President,
 
 We acknowledge the recent meeting in Egypt that explored reconciliation efforts among Palestinian factions. We encourage these diplomatic engagements to continue to work towards bringing the parties together and contributing meaningfully to revitalize a comprehensive peace process in the region.
 
Ultimately, there is no alternative to a two-State solution where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully side by side in line with internationally agreed parameters, including Security Council Resolution 2334. Japan will never cease in its efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.  

Madame President,
 
Despite recent generous contributions and pledges, UNRWA still faces significant funding shortages which can curtail its ability to provide lifesaving support to Palestine refugees. After last month’s Israeli military incursion in Jenin, President Abbas has vowed to help rebuild the refugee camp. Japan is proud to have announced last week its new humanitarian assistance in cooperation with UNRWA of 1 million US Dollars in the areas of sanitation, health and response to unexploded ordnance, which will contribute meaningfully to these efforts.  
 
I thank you Madame President.