New Zealand’s refusal to recognise Palestine as a state is an embarrassment for the National Government and puts our country on the wrong side of history.

“New Zealanders will feel let down by Christopher Luxon and his government today,” Labour foreign affairs spokesperson Peeni Henare said.

“Luxon had a chance to stand up for what is right, but he failed. There is no two-state solution or enduring peace in the Middle East without recognition of Palestine as a state.

“We also need meaningful sanctions on Israel through cutting tade and economic ties, freezing assets, and implementing travel bans on named individuals as we have with Russia in response to the illegal invasion of Ukraine.

“The Government also needs to make sure aid reaches those who need it. “We’ve watched an unfolding genocide on our screens for nearly two years. This Government is failing to take any of the action required to help stop the atrocities and suffering of hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians in Gaza.

“Recognition of Palestine and sanctions on Israel send a clear message to Israel and the world: New Zealand will not stand by while Israel disregards human life and dignity, and international law.

“Christopher Luxon has dragged his heels on this while his coalition partners squabbled and has ultimately made the wrong call. Gaza residents continue to deal with bombs, starvation, lack of medical care, and displacement every hour of the day,” Peeni Henare said.

Labour condemns the actions of Hamas on October 7, 2023, and continues to call for the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas. 

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