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”
2024/9/20
(As delivered)
Thank you, Mr. President.
I thank USG DiCarlo and High Commissioner for Human Rights Mr. Volker Türk for their briefings.
Japan is extremely concerned with the situation in the Middle East and is monitoring the escalation of tensions with grave concern, especially the incidents this week where a large number of communication devices exploded across Lebanon and Syria, reportedly killing dozens of people and injuring thousands. We are concerned that children were among the victims, including those reportedly killed.
Mr. President,
Japan urges all concerned actors to refrain from any further action or retaliation to avoid a further catastrophe in the region. The ongoing Gaza conflict has already inflamed regional tensions.
No one desires another full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, and civilians always pay the highest price if such a situation arises. All parties must once again recall their commitment to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 and return to a cessation of hostilities.
The fact that these incidents happened in multiple places including densely populated areas and caused civilian casualties is appalling. Civilians must be protected at all times in accordance with international law. We call for an urgent, thorough, and transparent investigation into the blasts.
The exchange of fire across the Blue Line has expanded dramatically since October last year. In relation to this, Japan reiterates its strong support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages based on the outlines of Security Council resolution 2735.
We stress the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East. We remain committed to making every diplomatic effort to end the violence and restore stability in the region.
I thank you, Mr. President.
I thank USG DiCarlo and High Commissioner for Human Rights Mr. Volker Türk for their briefings.
Japan is extremely concerned with the situation in the Middle East and is monitoring the escalation of tensions with grave concern, especially the incidents this week where a large number of communication devices exploded across Lebanon and Syria, reportedly killing dozens of people and injuring thousands. We are concerned that children were among the victims, including those reportedly killed.
Mr. President,
Japan urges all concerned actors to refrain from any further action or retaliation to avoid a further catastrophe in the region. The ongoing Gaza conflict has already inflamed regional tensions.
No one desires another full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, and civilians always pay the highest price if such a situation arises. All parties must once again recall their commitment to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 and return to a cessation of hostilities.
The fact that these incidents happened in multiple places including densely populated areas and caused civilian casualties is appalling. Civilians must be protected at all times in accordance with international law. We call for an urgent, thorough, and transparent investigation into the blasts.
The exchange of fire across the Blue Line has expanded dramatically since October last year. In relation to this, Japan reiterates its strong support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages based on the outlines of Security Council resolution 2735.
We stress the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East. We remain committed to making every diplomatic effort to end the violence and restore stability in the region.
I thank you, Mr. President.