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.
 
Since our last open debate in April, the Middle East has faced the threat of a large-scale war, and innocent civilians continue to suffer unimaginable hardship.
 
We remain deeply concerned over the current situation both in Gaza and the West Bank.
 
The repeated acts of violence, the appalling humanitarian crises, the settlement expansion, and the plight of the Palestinian people and that of the hostages cannot be tolerated any more.
 
This sense of urgency is the core of the joint statement issued by 29 partners including my own country.
Once again, all parties concerned must achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
 
We commend the tireless mediation efforts of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar.
 
A ceasefire is the essential cornerstone through which humanitarian aid can reach the vulnerable people of Gaza and lay the foundation for reconstruction and a renewed commitment to a two-state solution.
 
In this regard, as the co-chair of the Working Group together with Norway on “Economic Viability of the Palestinian State”, we will actively contribute to the discussions at the upcoming Conference for the Implementation of the Two-State solution.
 
Our support for Palestinian economic development has continued for decades.
 
This month, together with Malaysia and Palestine, Japan held the fourth ministerial meeting of the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD), a regional cooperation initiative launched by Japan in 2013.
 
The conference adopted a comprehensive action plan for humanitarian response, early-recovery and reconstruction, and support for PA reforms.
 
Mr. President,
 
The situation in Iran saw dramatic developments in June and remains volatile.
 
We reiterate our support for the ceasefire between Israel and Iran, and strongly urge all parties to avoid any destabilizing actions.
 
Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must not be allowed.
 
We note the upcoming talks between the E3 and Iran and call for early resumption of US-Iran negotiations toward a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue.
 
The IAEA’s monitoring and verification is essential in this regard, and Japan strongly urges Iran to swiftly resume full cooperation with the Agency.
 
Based on our longstanding relationship with Iran, Japan will continue to make necessary diplomatic efforts.
 
Mr. President,
 
In Syria, while concrete progress has been made toward a political transition, Japan is deeply concerned by the continued violence, especially in the south.
 
We call for the steady implementation of the ceasefire agreement and strongly urge the utmost restraint.
 
All parties must work constructively toward an inclusive political settlement and national reconciliation through dialogue.
Syria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence must be respected.
 
In Yemen, we condemn the resumption of Houthi attacks on commercial vessels.
 
The Houthis must cease this reckless conduct immediately and release all detainees without delay.
 
In Lebanon, while the ceasefire largely holds, the situation remains fragile with continued violations.
 
All parties need to fully implement the ceasefire agreement and refrain from any escalation that puts civilians at risk and undermines regional peace and stability.
 
To conclude, the international community must unite in the earnest pursuit of lasting resolutions of the numerous conflicts in the Middle East. Japan will continue to play its part to this end.
 
I thank you.