11 December 2024
Thank you, Mr. President.
At the outset, let me extend our appreciation to Palestine for its initiative and flexibility during the negotiation of the two draft resolutions.
I must say that neither of them is perfect. Important elements are missing, such as a clear and strong condemnation of Hamas’ brutal acts of terror and their continued hostage-taking in violation of international law.
However, both of the resolutions represent a much-needed display of political will of the international community.
The tragedy in Gaza is never-ending.
Every passing day brings additional casualties of innocent civilians, and increases the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis, including the hostages.
The humanitarian situation, which is already described as “apocalyptic”, is getting worse as time goes by.
Although it is too late to save those lives already lost, the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and the drastic expansion of humanitarian aid to Gaza remains crucial.
These are the pillars of the ceasefire resolution, and what Japan has consistently advocated for in the Security Council.
It is also essential now to preserve UNRWA. The Agency is the backbone of humanitarian assistance to the more than 2 million desperate people of Gaza. The Agency will also play a critical role to rebuild the human dignity of Palestinian refugees after a post-ceasefire period.
However, this indispensable organization is at the brink of collapse following the adoption of the two Knesset laws severely restricting its operations. Our concerted efforts to maintain the Agency are urgently needed. This is the aim of this resolution, and Japan fully shares this objective.
At the same time, this resolution contains an important call for UNRWA to fully implement the recommendations of the Independent Review Group, and Japan supports this aspect as well.
Therefore, we voted in favor of the two draft resolutions.
Having said that, today’s adoption is not the end goal, as nothing will change if the resolutions remain solely on paper.
We have a collective responsibility to make sure that this Assembly’s demands are addressed by the parties.
For this purpose, we must not overlook the importance of a negotiated settlement between the parties. In this vein, Japan is encouraged by the reports on the resumption of ceasefire talks and commends the tireless efforts of the mediators.
Finally, Japan is steadfastly committed to a lasting peace for both Israel and Palestine in the form of a two-state solution, and will continue to make all possible diplomatic efforts to this end.
Likewise, we will remain at the forefront of humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable, and also stand ready to contribute to the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza.
I thank you.