The 25th Special Session of the Human Rights Council, The deteriorating situation of human rights in the Syrian Arab Republic, and the recent situation in Aleppo, Statement by Ambassador Mitsuko SHINO, The Permanent Mission of Japan (21 October 2016)

Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.
 
              Japan is deeply concerned by the worsening human rights situation in Syria, including the indiscriminate bombings of civilians taking place in the country, particularly the recent air strikes in eastern Aleppo. The situation in Aleppo requires the urgent attention and action of the international community. It is crucial to restore the agreement on cessation of hostilities as soon as possible in order to prevent further civilian casualties.
 
            We condemn the repeated attacks on hospitals and medical facilities in Syria. In Aleppo, while the medical evacuation of those in need of urgent treatment is a necessary step, there is a pressing need to stop all aerial bombardment and to allow sufficient time for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need and to enable further medical evacuation.
 
            Japan urges all parties to the conflict to strictly observe international human rights law and international humanitarian law and enable full and unimpeded humanitarian access to all besieged and hard to reach areas.  The pain and suffering of the Syrian people over the past five years is truly immeasurable. We cannot stress enough the necessity of resuming the political process in order to find long-term solutions.
 
            We commend the Commission of Inquiry on Syria for its work to ensure accountability in the face of the human rights situation in Syria despite being denied access to the country. Japan also supports the request to the commission to examine the situation in Aleppo and report to the Council.
 
I thank you.