The Palestine Forum of New Zealand is calling on the New Zealand Government to urgently demand that Israeli authorities end the inhumane blockade of occupied Gaza and allow the international civilian flotilla boats, currently sailing to Gaza, safe and unhindered passage to their destination.

Supported by NGOs in Gaza and civil society organisations worldwide, and with several New Zealanders on board, the Freedom Flotillas are sailing with a message of hope and solidarity for the Palestinian struggle for peace and justice, and to end Israel’s illegal siege, genocide, and occupation of Gaza.

“These unarmed boats carry nothing but courage, dignity and the voices of millions who refuse to accept silence in the face of genocide,” said [Spokesperson Name], spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand. “New Zealand must not remain silent. Our government has a moral duty to demand that Israel guarantee the safe passage of the flotillas and bring an end to its unlawful blockade of Gaza.”

The Palestine Forum emphasised that the flotillas, like previous peace convoys, pose no threat whatsoever to Israel. However, Israel’s record of illegal interceptions, violent attacks, and the seizure of Gaza-bound boats in international waters makes urgent diplomatic intervention essential.

“These flotillas, supported by global solidarity, are doing what governments and international institutions have failed to do, to stop genocide, dismantle apartheid, and demand accountability under international law,” the spokesperson added.

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters to immediately issue a public demand that Israel allow the flotilla vessels safe and unhindered passage to Gaza.

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