Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict (IPC famine alert and situation in the Gaza Strip)

Thank you, Madame President.    

I thank ASG Kehris, Director Paulsen and Acting USG Msyua for their sobering briefings.
 
Madame President,

Japan is deeply disturbed by findings in the IPC Famine Review Committee Alert and six-month update report by OHCHR on the human rights situation in Gaza, both published on November 8^th, which highlight the catastrophic conditions in Gaza.

The IPC alert is shocking, revealing that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is extremely grave and rapidly deteriorating and that famine is highly likely to become imminent in northern Gaza. The OHCHR report also highlights that by January 2024, starvation became a reality for Palestinians, particularly in the north, with the most vulnerable populations, such as infants and the elderly.
 
The far insufficient flow of aid into northern Gaza over the past month is unacceptable. While we acknowledge Israel has re-opened the Kissufim crossing today, additional urgent efforts are imperative to improve humanitarian access to the Strip.

In this context, Japan reiterates its grave concern over the adoption by the Israeli Knesset of the bills imposing severe restriction on UNRWA. The Agency is absolutely essential for the delivery of humanitarian relief in Gaza in this desperate hour. We also understand the Agency’s full commitment to take further steps to ensure its neutrality including through the implementation of the Colonna report.
 
Let us recall that Israel has been strongly encouraged, including by the ICJ, to fully cooperate with UN to ensure unhindered provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance. We are concerned about what the loss of UNRWA’s functioning is expected to bring about on the grounds of the region. Israel’s responses to the situation, including the adoption of the Knesset bills, appear inconsistent with its obligations under international humanitarian law.

Recalling Security Council resolution 2417, we emphasize that starvation must not be used as a weapon of war. And deliberate mass displacement must not take place.
 
Madame President,
 
Japan remains steadfast and proactive in its commitment to provide support to the most vulnerable and has provided approximately 130 million dollars in humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people since October 7 last year.

Japan is also gravely alarmed by the OHCHR report outlining the human rights situation in Gaza, which includes accounts of civilian casualties, the use of human shields, indiscriminate projectile attacks, attacks on hospitals and humanitarian and medical workers, widespread displacement within Gaza and hostage situations.
 
Japan once again strongly demands the release of all remaining hostages and reiterates its unequivocal and strong condemnation of the horrific terror attacks and hostage-taking committed by Hamas and others on October 7 last year.
 
We continue to repeat our unwavering demand that all parties to the conflict must act in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
 
Madame President,
 
Only an immediate ceasefire and the immediate release of hostages can end this catastrophe. All relevant parties must strive to bring a halt to the fighting without delay. Japan will continue tirelessly in its diplomatic efforts to that end.

I thank you, Madame President.