ハマスによる人質行為を非難する安保理アリア・フォーミュラ会合における山﨑大使ステートメント

 
Thank you, Madam Chair.
 
We thank the United States for its initiative to organize this timely and highly important Arria-Formula meeting.
 
We also thank Prof. Halperin-Kaddari for her powerful briefing.
 
Additionally, we are deeply grateful to Dr. Haran, Ms. Samerano, and Mr. Roman for your brave testimony. I express our great sorrow for the harrowing experiences you have endured.
 
As we have stated many times, Japan unequivocally condemns Hamas’s heinous terror attack on October 7^th last year and its taking of hostages.
 
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased hostages.
 
We also express our full solidarity with those still under captivity and their loved ones.
 
We are gravely concerned over the reports and the testimonies that the hostages might be subject to prolonged inhumane treatment, torture, and sexual violence.
 
Hamas’s denial of access by the ICRC to the hostages makes it difficult to know their whereabouts, how they are being treated or whether they are even still alive.
 
The Security Council must speak in one voice to condemn these brutal practices of Hamas.
 
This is long overdue and it is highly regrettable that the Council has repeatedly failed to do so.
 
All remaining hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally, as the terrible suffering of the hostages and their families increases.
 
To this end, Japan supports the ongoing efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, aiming at the release of the hostages, and we sincerely hope they will lead to successful results without delay.
 
The way forward is to achieve an immediate ceasefire that allows for the immediate release of hostages and for an environment conducive to massive humanitarian assistance activities in Gaza.
 
That said, we must not forget that the tragedy of the hostages will not end even after they are released and the conflict ends.
 
Japan calls for the international community’s continued and strong support for their swift and smooth recovery from physical injury and mental trauma.
 
The taking of hostages during armed conflict is a sheer violation of international law and has become a growing problem around the world.
 
Japan stands ready to seek any possible means to combat hostage-taking tactics.
 
I thank you, Chair.