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山﨑大使ステートメント

 
Thank you, Madam President. Japan thanks the Democratic Republic of the Congo for creating this opportunity.
 
The situation across the Middle East remains volatile and precarious with multiple crises unfolding simultaneously. The pursuit of diplomatic solutions is more essential than ever.
 
Despite the momentum toward a possible ceasefire generated by the mediation efforts of many countries, Japan is deeply concerned by the recent escalating exchange of attacks.
 
Our immediate priority must be to de-escalate tensions and restore regional stability, including by ensuring free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations should continue with a view to addressing various issues, including the Iranian nuclear issue, one by one. Vessels should be able to transit the Strait without being subject to tolls, or any other additional costs. There is no rationale or legitimacy in taking the global socio-economy hostage by disrupting peaceful passage through the Strait, which has long served as a global public asset.
 
Japan will continue to make every effort to foster an environment conducive to dialogue between the parties, in close coordination with the international community.
 
We welcome the Trilateral Framework agreed between Lebanon, Israel, and the United States, as a meaningful step toward lasting peace. We reiterate our call for the respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and the full implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 1701.
 
Hamas’s recent announcement regarding its preparations for the transfer of administrative responsibility to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) and Israel’s approval of the deployment of the International Stabilization Force and NCAG in Gaza are positive steps towards the operationalization of the second phase of the Comprehensive Plan, in line with Security Council resolution 2803. At the same time, Israel is also required to withdraw its forces from Gaza and facilitate unhindered humanitarian access.
 
We are also gravely concerned by the deteriorating situation in the West Bank, particularly the escalation of settler violence against Palestinian civilians, and reiterate our call on Israel to take the necessary measures.
 
As part of our initiatives to expand our assistance network toward achieving peace through a two-state solution, Japan co-hosted a ministerial meeting of CEAPAD, the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development last week. CEAPAD’s approach is to leverage the resources and development expertise of East Asian countries to contribute to Palestinian state-building.
 
Japan will continue to play a constructive role in advancing diplomatic efforts toward peace and stability in the Middle East.
 
I thank you.