Wellington, New Zealand — The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) strongly condemns the ongoing genocidal actions perpetrated against the Palestinian people in Gaza. We mourn the devastating loss of life and the unprecedented destruction inflicted upon a besieged civilian population, including thousands of women and children who have been killed, maimed, or made homeless.

The scale and nature of the violence—marked by indiscriminate bombings and systematic targeting of health workers, aid workers, hospitals and refugee camps, and the blockade of food, water, medicine and other essential humanitarian supplies—amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity. These actions constitute a blatant violation of international law and the most basic principles of human decency said Ibrar Sheik, President of FIANZ.

We call on the New Zealand Government to honour and support the recent ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which found a plausible case of genocide committed by the Israeli regime against Palestinians in Gaza. As a signatory to the Genocide Convention and a long-standing advocate for human rights, New Zealand must now act decisively and with integrity.

We urge that the New Zealand Government:

• Cease all diplomatic, trade and technological cooperation with the Zionist regime of Israel until it ends its occupation, lifts the siege on Gaza, and complies fully with international law.
• Support international efforts to deliver immediate and unhindered humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, and to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable.
• Join the growing global call for a permanent ceasefire and the recognition of the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination, freedom, and return.
• Accelerate its efforts towards establishing Palestinian state as the part of two state solution.

As New Zealanders, we believe in justice, compassion, and standing on the right side of history. Silence in the face of genocide is complicity. FIANZ joins the voices of conscience—locally and globally—in standing with the people of Palestine” said Anwar Ghani, Chair of National and International Relations of FIANZ.

We urge all New Zealanders, civil society organisations, and faith communities to raise their voices, demand accountability, and advocate for peace rooted in justice.

The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) is the national representative body of Muslims in Aotearoa New Zealand, advocating for justice, compassion, and unity.

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