New Zealand Faces Pressure to Recognize Palestine as International Support Grows
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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – New Zealand is under increasing domestic and international pressure to formally recognize Palestine as a state, following similar moves by Spain, Ireland, and Norway. The calls for recognition come amidst escalating violence in Gaza and a growing international focus on a two-state solution.
On May 22, 2024, spain, Ireland, and Norway announced their intention to recognize Palestine, a decision that has amplified scrutiny on New zealand’s position. these nations cited the urgent need for a lasting peace and the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination as key factors in their decisions. The recognition is expected to take effect on May 28, 2024.
Domestic Calls for Recognition Intensify
New Zealand’s Labor leader, Chris Hipkins, has publicly urged the government to recognize Palestine, stating it is “well and truly time” for a decision. He criticized the current government’s stance as demonstrating a “total lack of leadership” and argued new Zealand is becoming “out of step” with it’s allies.
The Green Party has been even more vocal, accusing the government of “delaying any meaningful action.” Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick emphasized that recognizing Palestine is consistent with New Zealand’s ancient commitment to human rights and justice, noting that a majority of United Nations member states already recognize Palestinian statehood.As of May 22, 2024, 143 out of 193 UN member states recognize Palestine.
Swarbrick revealed the Green Party has drafted legislation to impose sanctions on Israel, but its passage hinges on securing support from within the governing coalition. she stated that only six votes from the 68-member government are needed to bring the bill to fruition.
Escalating Conflict and Journalist Deaths in Gaza
The calls for recognition are occurring against a backdrop of intensifying conflict in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved a plan on August 8, 2024, to retake Gaza City, marking a further escalation of the 22-month offensive launched in response to Hamas’ october 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The offensive has resulted in critically important casualties and widespread destruction.
On August 11,2024,a heavy bombardment of Gaza City was reported,followed by the tragic death of al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif. The Associated Press reported that al-Sharif was killed alongside three other journalists and a driver. The journalists were reportedly covering the ongoing Israeli military operations.
The Israel defense Forces (IDF) confirmed al-Sharif’s death,alleging he was affiliated with Hamas and “posed as a journalist.” This claim has been met with criticism from press freedom organizations,including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ),which has documented the deaths of at least 94 journalists and media workers since the start of the conflict.
New Zealand’s Historical Position on Palestine
New Zealand has historically maintained a position of supporting a two-state solution,but has not formally recognized Palestine. In 1980, New Zealand co-sponsored UN Security Council Resolution 497, which condemned Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem.However, subsequent governments have refrained from recognizing Palestine, citing the need for a negotiated settlement between Israel and the Palestinians. The current Labour-led coalition government, formed in November 2023, has indicated it is reviewing its policy on Palestine, but has yet to announce a decision.
