URGENT UPDATE: New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, has just announced during a high-stakes address to the United Nations that the nation will not recognize Palestine as a state at this time. Peters cited concerns over political manipulation by both Hamas and Israel, emphasizing that the current geopolitical climate is not conducive for recognition.
During his remarks, Peters stressed that the world stands on the brink of chaos, stating, “The international order that has sustained peace for the past 80 years stands on the precipice of breaking down.” He highlighted the urgent need for effective leadership to restore trust in international institutions, particularly as humanitarian crises escalate globally.
“New Zealand is deeply troubled by the humanitarian disasters we see globally,” Peters added, referencing the severe situations in Syria, Sudan, and Myanmar, where millions require immediate aid. In Syria, nearly 17 million people need humanitarian assistance, while over 30 million are affected in Sudan.
As the conflict in Gaza continues to devastate lives, New Zealand’s decision to withhold recognition of Palestine reflects a careful consideration of the ongoing violence and instability. Peters pointed to the brutal attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens on October 7, 2023, as a pivotal moment that has shaped New Zealand’s stance. “We are appalled by the barbarity of Hamas’ attack,” he stated, while also condemning Israel’s military response as “grossly disproportionate.”
Furthermore, Peters warned that recognizing Palestinian statehood now could be counterproductive, asserting, “Recognition at this time is open to political manipulation by both Hamas and Israel.” He noted that such recognition could embolden Hamas and complicate peace efforts, rather than advance them.
Looking ahead, Peters affirmed New Zealand’s commitment to the two-state solution and Palestinian self-determination. He indicated that recognition of Palestine should be a matter of “when, not if,” but emphasized that conditions must improve for meaningful dialogue and peace.
Peters concluded with a call for global leadership to foster peace, stating, “We need leadership that creates possibilities, not extinguishes them.” He reiterated New Zealand’s ongoing demand for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza as the immediate priority.
As the international community watches, New Zealand’s position raises critical questions about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of small nations in global diplomacy. The world awaits further developments in this complex issue.
For now, New Zealand stands firm in its decision, focusing on humanitarian assistance rather than political gestures that may hinder the path to peace. “Aid must flow and the violence must cease,” Peters stressed, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalates.
