Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Resumed Tenth Emergency Session of the United Nations General Assembly

 
Thank you, Madam President.
 
Japan voted in favor of the resolution after thorough consideration.
 
We would like to make the following points as our explanation of vote.
 
First, as a country that values the rule of law, Japan attaches great importance to the role of the ICJ and its advisory opinions.
 
Japan has been contributing to the work of ICJ, including this advisory opinion, by participating in the proceedings where we elaborated on the prohibition of the acquisition of territory by force.
 
Second, as stated in the Advisory Opinion, Israel’s continued settlement activities are in violation of international law.
 
They undermine the prospect for a two-state solution.
 
The ICJ tasked the General Assembly to follow up on its advisory opinion.
 
Therefore, Japan has been constructively involved in such discussions as a responsible Member State.
 
However, we observe that there remain some elements which would have required further consideration on what the most appropriate measures would be to address the advisory opinion.
 
For instance, this resolution includes language regarding sanctions and other issues related to bilateral relations.
 
We understand that these measures are to be taken based on the domestic laws and policy decisions of each country.
 
We should not lose sight of what the only realistic approach for ending the Israel-Palestine conflict is.
 
It is to rebuild trust between the parties and to ultimately realize a two-state solution through negotiations, in line with international law and based on the relevant UNSC resolutions as well as internationally agreed parameters.
 
Last but not least, with regard to the grave situation in Gaza, Japan has consistently condemned the terror attacks by Hamas and others and has expressed deep concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
 
We again call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages and the delivery of desperately needed humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza at scale.
 
Japan will continue to strongly support the tireless efforts of the United States, Egypt and Qatar to this end.
 
I thank you.