Today Labour MPs will stand alongside thousands calling on the New Zealand Government to take meaningful action to end the unfolding genocide in Gaza – including immediate diplomatic and economic sanctions on Israel.
“Palestine needs our action. Christopher Luxon’s Government can and must do more to end the unfolding genocide in Gaza - including immediate sanctions,” Labour foreign affairs spokesperson, Peeni Henare said.
“Every day we are confronted with horrific images of a humanitarian crisis on a scale not seen for generations. New Zealanders are horrified, and rightly so.
“The Government is failing to use all the tools at its disposal to help halt the unfolding genocide in Gaza. Its announcement in August that it will “formally consider” Palestinian statehood in September further delayed any meaningful action.
“Aotearoa has a proud history of standing up for human rights and justice. That means calling for an immediate ceasefire, recognising the State of Palestine, and imposing sanctions on Israel for its ongoing illegal occupation and violence.
“New Zealand must not accept the illegal occupation of Palestinian land in the West Bank and the denial of self-determination for Palestine. The International Court of Justice has declared Israel’s occupation illegal and called for countries like New Zealand to take action through sanctions.
“Sanctions must include cutting economic ties and trade, freezing assets, and implementing travel bans on named individuals. This would send a clear message: New Zealand will not stand in the face of Israel's complete disregard for human life and dignity and international law,” Peeni Henare said.
