パレスチナ問題を含む中東情勢に関する安保理会合（紛争下の性的暴力国連事務総長特別代表による報告）における山﨑大使ステートメント

I thank SRSG Patten for her valuable briefing.
 
We are profoundly concerned by the harrowing finding of the mission team that there are reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence occurred in multiple locations during the terror attacks of 7^th October last year. We are also greatly disturbed by the finding of the mission team that there is clear and convincing information that sexual violence has been committed against hostages. Such intolerable acts must be stopped immediately.  
 
More than five months have passed since Hamas and others’ abhorrent acts of terror against Israel took place. We unequivocally condemn these heinous acts, and strongly call for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas and other groups, all the more so due to possible ongoing sexual violence against those hostages.    
 
The report has also found allegations of cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment against Palestinians in detention, including the increased use of various forms of sexual violence, by which we are also deeply troubled.  
 
Sexual violence in conflict is a serious crime that violates not only the physical body, but also human dignity. Japan strongly calls for an end to such atrocious crimes. It must not be used as a tactic of war.
 
Ensuring perpetrators are held accountable is vital. We must also uphold the highest integrity in reporting sexual violence to reduce further harm and stigma for survivors.
 
At the same time, deeply concerned about the catastrophic situation in Gaza, Japan reiterates that all parties to the conflict must act in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law.
 
In this vein, a humanitarian ceasefire needs to be realized promptly in such a way as to ensure a conducive environment for sufficient humanitarian assistance activities as well as to lead to the release of the remaining hostages, therefore resulting in the realization of a sustainable ceasefire.  
 
In conclusion, Japan reiterates its deep sympathy and solidarity with the victims of sexual violence, including those affected by the brutal violence since the October 7th attacks. Japan remains committed to combatting all forms of sexual violence in conflict and to alleviating the suffering of all victims of sexual violence.