Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on “The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question”

 
Thank you, Mr. President for convening this open debate.
 
I also extend our gratitude to Secretary-General for his important briefing.
 
At the outset, we hope 2025 will be a year of improvements in the political and humanitarian situation in the Middle East.
 
There is momentum on the ground:
 
In Lebanon, the ceasefire agreement is being implemented and we congratulate the election of the new president as an important milestone toward stability and development in the country. Syria is also making progress in its political transition.
 
Significantly, a Gaza ceasefire-hostage deal, a deal that we have all wanted to see, is now in place.
 
This is a critical first step to end the devastating conflict and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and de-escalate tensions in the region, which Japan has consistently called for.
 
While deeply regretting the enormous number of civilian casualties, including aid workers, and immense humanitarian suffering over the past 15 months, Japan values the parties’ will to end the agony.
 
We appreciate all parties involved, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, in achieving this breakthrough.
 
The release of the three hostages yesterday is a long-awaited welcome news, but many others are still waiting to reunite with their loved ones.  
 
The agreement must be implemented swiftly, steadily and in good faith. The unbearable plight must end immediately.
 
It is also our sincere hope that the agreement will pave the way for long-term stability in Israel and Palestine, and beyond.
 
Mr. President,
 
At this historic juncture, let me make three points:
 
First, the ceasefire will expand the aid delivery throughout Gaza.
 
Now is the time to scale up our humanitarian relief supply and help the Palestinians get out of the nightmare as soon as possible.
 
Since October 2023, Japan has contributed USD 230 million in total for humanitarian assistance in Palestine, and will continue to play our part.
 
Israel should ensure a conducive environment for humanitarian activities, particularly by UNRWA, now that the implementation of the gravely concerning bills against the Agency is approaching.
 
Second, our concerted efforts are necessary to restore Gaza.
 
Housing and infrastructures are destroyed. Social order has collapsed.
 
To realize the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians to live in dignity, and to prevent another October 7, we must swiftly develop a post-conflict plan, including early recovery and reconstruction.
 
Third, we must lay the foundation for a two-state solution.
 
Japan opposes any actions that would run counter to this vision, including Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
 
We also remain steadfastly committed to revitalizing the Palestinian Authority, both politically and financially, so that it can effectively govern both Gaza and the West Bank.
 
Mr. President,
 
We cannot bring back those who have been tragically lost in this conflict, but there are still plenty of lives we can save.
 
The cycle of bloodshed must end.
 
A window of opportunity is here and we must not lose it.
 
I thank you.