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New Zealand has extended the deployment of its Defence Force liaison officer to Israel by three months, until May 3, 2026. The extension aims to enhance understanding of the evolving and complex situation in Gaza as the peace plan progresses. The liaison officer will remain based in the US-led Civil Military Coordination Centre to inform future decisions on New Zealand’s contributions.
New Zealand has extended the deployment of a Defence Force liaison officer to Israel for an additional eight weeks to enhance understanding of coordination efforts on the ground. The deployment aims to gather information to better assess future options for supporting sustained peace in Gaza. The liaison officer continues to operate within the US-led Civil Military Coordination Centre, with no decisions made beyond this extension.
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters welcomes the first phase of the US-led peace deal between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the need to end the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians over the past two years. He commends the efforts of the negotiating parties, including the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, for taking a leadership role in the process. Peters urges Hamas to release all hostages and Israel to withdraw troops, emphasizing the importance of delivering on promises for lasting peace and calling for continued efforts towards a complete resolution.
The speech emphasizes the importance of political leadership in addressing international challenges, restoring trust in institutions, and navigating the changing global order. New Zealand expresses concern over humanitarian crises in various countries and advocates for bold reforms within the United Nations. The government deliberates on the recognition of Palestinian statehood, highlighting the complexities of the situation and the need for conducive conditions for peace negotiations.
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced at the UN General Assembly that the country will not recognize the State of Palestine due to ongoing conflicts and uncertainties about the future state. New Zealand remains a strong advocate for the two-state solution and Palestinian self-determination, emphasizing the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and leadership to resolve the situation. The government is committed to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, adherence to international law, and an end to illegal settlement activities by Israel.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters is attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to reflect on the international rules-based system and advocate for reforms to address global challenges. He will participate in the Two State Solution conference, hold bilateral meetings, and deliver New Zealand’s national statement to the UN General Assembly. Peters will also gather information on conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, South Sudan, and Myanmar, including finalizing New Zealand’s position on the recognition of Palestine during his visit from September 21 to September 30.
On June 24, 2025, a Ministerial statement on the Middle East was delivered to address the Israel-Iran conflict, emphasizing de-escalation and ceasefire. Despite a ceasefire being brokered by the United States, ongoing suffering and conflict persist in Gaza, with calls for immediate action from the international community. New Zealand stands united with other countries in condemning actions that hinder a two-state solution and advocates for dialogue, diplomacy, and a permanent ceasefire to end the cycle of conflict for future generations.