The National Government must pull out all the stops to guarantee the safety of New Zealanders detained near Gaza.

“Israel’s actions are heavy-handed and wrong,” Labour’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Peeni Henare said.

“Intercepting aid vessels in international waters is almost certainly a breach of international law - and completely unacceptable.

“The Government must act decisively to bring our people home. Instead, Christopher Luxon is missing in action while Israel tramples on international law, human rights, and the dignity of thousands suffering in Gaza.

“New Zealand cannot sit on the sidelines. We need leadership that makes it clear: we will not stand by while our citizens are put at risk,” Peeni Henare said.