Credited from: REUTERS
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stated on Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has “lost the plot” regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Luxon highlighted the “utterly appalling” situation, including a lack of humanitarian assistance and the forceful displacement of people due to the ongoing conflict, labeling Netanyahu's actions as completely unacceptable, especially the recent attack on Gaza City, according to The Jakarta Post and AA and Reuters.
During a parliamentary session, Luxon emphasized that New Zealand is considering recognizing a Palestinian state, joining allies such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and France, who have voiced their support ahead of the upcoming UN conference. He remarked, "What we are seeing overnight is utterly, utterly unacceptable," adding that the current situation could jeopardize paths towards a two-state solution, which is vital for regional peace, according to The Jakarta Post and AA.
Furthermore, amid growing domestic pressure, there have been protests in New Zealand demanding stronger action from the government on the issue. Protesters have been vocal outside parliament, urging members to recognize Palestine. Concurrently, tensions flared in parliament when Green party member Chloe Swarbrick was ejected for refusing to apologize after calling fellow MPs "spineless" for not supporting a bill to sanction Israel, reflecting the divided opinions on foreign policy within the government, according to Reuters.