NZ PM Luxon Condemns Netanyahu's Actions, Considers Palestine Recognition
New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon delivers unprecedented criticism of Netanyahu's Gaza policies while considering Palestinian state recognition, amid growing international pressure for humanitarian action.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon speaking about the Gaza crisis and Palestinian recognition
In a striking rebuke, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon declared on Sunday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has "lost the plot," citing grave concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing military operations.
Strong Condemnation of Israeli Actions
Luxon's forceful criticism comes as New Zealand weighs joining other Western allies in recognizing Palestinian statehood. The Prime Minister specifically condemned the lack of humanitarian assistance, forceful displacement of people, and annexation of Gaza as "utterly appalling."
"What we are seeing overnight, the attack on Gaza City, is utterly, utterly unacceptable," Luxon stated emphatically.
Growing International Pressure
The statement aligns New Zealand with an emerging consensus among Western nations. Australia recently announced its intention to recognize a Palestinian state, joining Britain, Canada, and France in their commitment to do so at an upcoming UN conference in September.
Humanitarian Crisis Escalates
Multiple Western allies have raised alarm over what they term "unimaginable levels" of humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While Israel denies responsibility for spreading hunger in the region, instead pointing to Hamas's alleged theft of aid shipments, international pressure continues to mount for unrestricted aid access.
Parliamentary Tensions Rise
The issue has sparked intense debate within New Zealand's parliament, reflecting broader regional diplomatic tensions. Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick was removed from Parliament twice after refusing to apologize for suggesting government politicians were "spineless" in their approach to Israeli sanctions.
As protests continue outside Parliament buildings, with demonstrators calling for Palestinian recognition, New Zealand's position on this critical international issue appears to be approaching a turning point.
Ella Thompson
Ella Thompson is a Wellington-based journalist covering politics, climate policy, and digital freedoms in the Pacific. With a background in law and international relations, she brings sharp analysis and a passion for civic accountability.