パレスチナを含む中東情勢に関する安保理公開討論における上村政府代表（中東和平担当特使）ステートメント

 
I thank His Excellency Mr. Séjourné, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, for his initiative. My appreciation also goes to the Secretary-General for his comprehensive briefing.
 
Mr. President,
 
More than 100 days have passed since October 7^th. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to all the victims who have lost their lives in this conflict, including UN staff members and their families.
 
As a result of this conflict, which began with Hamas’s heinous attack, what has been left to us? Many innocent people have been taken hostages and their families and loved ones are still spending sleepless nights hoping for their release. Countless children and women in Gaza have lost their lives with fears in their hearts as they hear the ceaseless sound of air raids and bombings.
 
This is the cruel reality of Gaza that we must face. What is the most realistic action we can take to change the situation?
 
Mr. President,
 
The Security Council adopted two resolutions after intense negotiations to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. These resolutions are the result of the toil and sweat of Council members who desired to end the cycle of sorrow and hatred. We do not want more blood nor tears, and so these resolutions must never end up as mere “pieces of paper”, and we must foster the serious negotiations that are underway by several countries concerned outside this chamber.
 
We must think tirelessly of what we should do to ensure that an increased supply of humanitarian aid reaches the Gaza Strip, and that UN humanitarian staff can work in a safe environment.
 
In this regard, the Council should provide its utmost support for the work of UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator Ms. Kaag, who just began her mission this month in line with Resolution 2720.
 
Mr. President,
 
Hamas must release all hostages immediately and unconditionally. This is the starting point for everything. The terrorist acts are unacceptable for any reason.
 
At the same time, let us imagine more for the lives and livelihoods of people inside of Gaza. If one's son or daughter is killed, or if one’s parent is killed, all that remains within the hearts of the bereaved is deep grief and hatred that cannot easily heal. This humanitarian catastrophe must be stopped. And all parties to the conflict must comply with international law, including international humanitarian law.
 
Mr. President,
 
I hope that today’s debate will lead to action. We have an undeniable responsibility for many fragile lives and our history as well. We are witnessing the spillover to the West Bank, Lebanon, the Red Sea, Yemen and even more areas, which is seriously concerning. We are at a crossroads of whether these conflicts turn into a more large-scale regional confrontation. We must stop it.
 
In order to tackle all these serious challenges, a two-state solution has even more importance than ever. For the people of both Israel and Palestine to lead “a normal life” without any fear for their own safety and survival, that is the key.
 
Japan will continuously work to build confidence between the parties through its own initiatives. Lastly, I would like to reiterate what I said here 45 days ago: Japan is, in good times and bad times, an “escort runner” for Palestine, Israel and all the people and peoples living in the region.
 
I thank you.