The coalition Government is welcoming the deal to end hostilities in Gaza, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.
Israel began bombing Gaza after the Palestinian militant group Hamas killed more than 1000 Israelis on October 7, 2023, and kidnapped another 200 and took them back to Gaza as hostages.
“Over the past 15 months, this conflict has caused incomprehensible human suffering,” Peters says.
“We acknowledge the efforts of all those involved in the negotiations to bring an end to the misery, particularly the United States, Qatar and Egypt.
“The terms of the deal must now be implemented fully. Protection of civilians and the release of hostages must be at the forefront of effort.
“There now needs to be a massive, rapid, unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
“To achieve a durable and lasting peace, we call on the parties to take meaningful steps towards a two-state solution.
“Political will is the key to ensuring history does not repeat itself.”
The Palestine Forum of New Zealand says it welcomes the announcement of a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, offering crucial humanitarian relief to Palestinians enduring immense suffering under relentless military aggression.
“The destruction in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with essential civilian infrastructure and healthcare facilities in ruins.
“While the ceasefire provides an essential reprieve, its sustainability remains uncertain.
“The current Israeli Government faces mounting international condemnation for alleged war crimes and ongoing violations of international law, raising doubts about its commitment to lasting peace.”
Meanwhile, the Green Party is reiterating its call for New Zealand to push for an end to the “unlawful occupation of Palestine”.
“We welcome the signs of a meaningful ceasefire, but there remains work to do to secure lasting peace,” the party’s spokesperson for Foreign Affairs, Teanau Tuiono, says.
“This is a victory for Palestinians and the wider solidarity movement who have long pushed for a ceasefire.
“However, it must be followed by efforts to establish justice and self-determination for Palestinians and bring an end to Israeli apartheid and the illegal occupation of Palestine.”
