Tāmaki Makaurau residents stood united against New Zealand’s involvement in the US-UK led attacks on Yemen, protesting outside the offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) on Friday 26th January 2024.
A Palestinian Youth Aotearoa media release said:
“We not only don’t agree with the coalition government’s decision to send NZDF personnel to the Red Sea, we unreservedly condemn it.
“Israel and the USA instituted an illegal blockade of Gaza, that has had a profound impact on the health and rights of Palestinians.
The Houthis of Yemen in November announced a blockade of Israeli bound shipping, in response to ongoing Gaza Genocide. Unlike, Israel they have also instituted that blockade without loss of life and been clear the blockade in the red sea will be lifted when the Genocide stops.
“All Kiwi’s should be concerned with the coalition governments departure from its longstanding tradition of elevating the rule of international law. The double standards of Prime Minister Luxon is not only embarrassing, it is indefensible.
“Luxon and Winston Peters are effectively telling the world that shipping cost increases are more important to New Zealand than Palestinian lives.
The six targeting specialists from the NZDF should be recalled to New Zealand, and steps be taken to ensure we are not complicit in enabling the unfolding genocide in Gaza. The National-coalition government has prioritised business-as-usual for commercial shipping in the Red Sea over Palestinian lives, even as Israel stands accused at the International Court of Justice for genocide.
“New Zealand should re-examine the military and security alliances we have with the USA and Israel, and withdraw from operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea. The US is on the wrong side of history and New Zealand should have no part in these military activities.”
Auckland Peace Action 