New Zealand PM Addresses Gaza Famine, Delays State Recognition Decision

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a United Nations-backed body, has officially declared that famine conditions are present in Gaza. This alarming announcement comes amid escalating humanitarian crises in the region, prompting international concern. As discussions regarding the recognition of a Palestinian state intensify, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Chris Hipkins, indicated that his government will not hasten its decision on this matter.

On Sunday, Hipkins emphasized that New Zealand is carefully navigating its own political processes, with an official stance expected to be revealed in September 2023. He stated, “We’re working through our own process and will have more to talk about that with respect to September, and each country is coming into its own view.”

The Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the ongoing military actions in Gaza City and the West Bank, describing them as detrimental to efforts aimed at achieving a two-state solution. He remarked, “What we’re doing is calling out military action into Gaza City and the extremist settlements in the West Bank, with an explicit aim of removing the two-state solution.”

Conditions in Gaza have deteriorated significantly, with Hipkins stating, “I think we’ve plumbed new depths.” The IPC’s validation of famine in the region has intensified global frustration, as humanitarian access has been severely restricted for the past six to nine months.

Hipkins pointed out the dire state of healthcare infrastructure, noting that “94 percent of hospitals are destroyed or out of action, 90 percent of Gaza in rubble.” He criticized the Israeli government’s actions, highlighting the importance of allowing humanitarian aid to flow freely into the besieged area.

Israel’s annexation of Gaza and the forced displacement of Palestinians remain critical issues, according to Hipkins. He stated, “Israel has a responsibility to make sure that it can get aid and humanitarian assistance into Gaza.” The Prime Minister urged the global community to unite in demanding unrestricted access for humanitarian agencies, particularly the United Nations and neutral non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that can provide essential aid.

In his remarks, Hipkins reiterated the need for an immediate ceasefire and a return to discussions that prioritize a two-state solution. He has consistently called for the immediate release of hostages and for Israel to grant unhindered access to humanitarian efforts.

As the international community watches closely, the situation in Gaza remains critical, and the need for immediate action is more urgent than ever.