Key points
- Committed to a two-state solution
- Allies Australia, Canada, and Britain recognised Palestine
- Labour criticises the government’s cautious stance
WELLINGTON: New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that New Zealand will not recognise the State of Palestine at this time but remains committed to a two-state solution.
“With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time,” Peters said in his address to the United Nations General Assembly.
“We are also concerned that a focus on recognition, in the current circumstances, could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions,” he added.
New Zealand’s stance differs from traditional allies Australia, Canada, and Britain, all of which recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday. This move aligned them with over 140 other countries supporting Palestinians’ aspirations for an independent homeland from the occupied territories.
Better prospects for peace
A government statement on Friday expressed hope to recognise a Palestinian state when the situation on the ground presents better prospects for peace and negotiation than currently.
The opposition Labour Party criticised the decision, saying it would place New Zealand on the wrong side of history.
Labour’s foreign affairs spokesperson Peeni Henare said New Zealand would feel let down by the government today.
“There is no two-state solution or enduring peace in the Middle East without recognition of Palestine as a state,” Henare said.
