In a powerful address to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, September 26, 2025, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the release of all remaining hostages, and an urgent increase in humanitarian aid to address the catastrophic situation in the region. Highlighting New Zealand’s longstanding commitment to peace and humanitarian principles, Peters announced a significant new financial contribution from the New Zealand government to support relief efforts in Gaza, where months of relentless violence have left the enclave in ruins and its population on the brink of survival.
The minister’s remarks come at a time when the Gaza Strip is grappling with one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history. Since the escalation of violence triggered by the October 7, 2023, attacks, the Israeli military campaign in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 65,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, according to figures cited by international observers. The region, already strained by years of blockade and intermittent conflict, has been rendered largely uninhabitable, with widespread destruction of infrastructure, severe food insecurity, and the spread of disease compounding the suffering of its 2.3 million residents.
A Call for Peace Amid Escalating Violence
Foreign Minister Peters’ speech at the UN General Assembly underscored New Zealand’s unwavering stance on the need for de-escalation and humanitarian intervention in Gaza. “We have, ever since the October 7 attacks, repeatedly demanded a ceasefire, the release of the remaining hostages, and for Israel to allow vital aid to flow into Gaza. That is where our focus remains,” he declared. His words reflect a consistent position articulated by New Zealand since the onset of the current conflict, which began when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages.
The Israeli response, characterized by intense airstrikes and ground operations, has drawn widespread international condemnation for its disproportionate impact on civilians. The staggering death toll, combined with the destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools, has fueled calls for an immediate halt to hostilities. Peters emphasized that the violence must stop to prevent further loss of life and to create space for dialogue and humanitarian relief. “The cycle of violence benefits no one,” he said, urging all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire.
New Zealand’s plea for a ceasefire aligns with broader international efforts to broker peace in the region. The United Nations, along with key global powers and regional actors, has repeatedly called for an end to the fighting, though diplomatic efforts have so far failed to yield a lasting resolution. The complexity of the conflict, rooted in decades of territorial disputes, political grievances, and competing national aspirations, continues to frustrate mediators. Peters’ remarks signal New Zealand’s commitment to supporting multilateral initiatives aimed at de-escalation, while also acknowledging the challenges of achieving a sustainable peace.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: A Dire Situation
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with the population facing unprecedented challenges in accessing basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical care. The Israeli military’s sustained bombardment has destroyed much of the enclave’s infrastructure, including power plants, water treatment facilities, and healthcare centers. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that over 80% of Gaza’s population has been displaced, with many forced to seek shelter in overcrowded and under-resourced camps.
Famine has emerged as a critical threat, with the World Food Programme (WFP) warning that Gaza is on the verge of widespread starvation. Restrictions on aid deliveries, coupled with the destruction of agricultural land and markets, have severely limited access to food. Malnutrition rates among children have skyrocketed, with thousands at risk of long-term health complications. The spread of infectious diseases, exacerbated by poor sanitation and a lack of medical supplies, has further compounded the crisis. Polio, once eradicated in Gaza, has reemerged, prompting urgent vaccination campaigns amid ongoing hostilities.
Peters’ announcement of a major financial contribution to Gaza’s humanitarian relief efforts underscores New Zealand’s recognition of the scale of the crisis. While specific details of the funding package were not disclosed in his speech, sources within the New Zealand government indicate that the aid will be channeled through reputable international organizations, such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). These organizations have been at the forefront of delivering life-saving assistance, including food, medical supplies, and temporary shelter, to Gaza’s beleaguered population.
The minister emphasized that allowing “vital aid to flow into Gaza” is a non-negotiable priority. However, aid deliveries have faced significant obstacles, including bureaucratic delays, security concerns, and restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities at key border crossings such as Rafah and Kerem Shalom. Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly called for unrestricted access to ensure that assistance reaches those in need. Peters’ remarks reflect New Zealand’s broader advocacy for easing these restrictions and ensuring that humanitarian principles are upheld, even in the midst of conflict.
New Zealand’s Position on Palestinian Statehood
In a notable segment of his address, Peters addressed New Zealand’s stance on the recognition of Palestinian statehood, a topic that has gained increasing prominence on the global stage. While expressing support for the aspirations of the Palestinian people, he stated that Wellington is not yet ready to formally recognize the state of Palestine. “The New Zealand Government believes that it has one opportunity to recognise Palestinian statehood, and it would make better sense to do so when conditions offer greater prospects for peace and negotiation than at present,” he explained.
This cautious approach reflects New Zealand’s desire to balance its commitment to a two-state solution with the need for a conducive environment for meaningful negotiations. The recognition of Palestinian statehood has been a divisive issue internationally, with over 140 countries, including several in Europe and the Global South, having formally recognized Palestine as a sovereign state. However, major Western powers, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, have yet to take this step, citing concerns about the timing and implications for peace talks.
Peters’ remarks suggest that New Zealand views recognition as a strategic decision that should contribute to, rather than complicate, the prospects for a negotiated settlement. The minister acknowledged the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for self-determination, but emphasized that any move toward recognition must be carefully timed to maximize its impact. “We want to see a viable Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace and security,” he said, echoing the principles of the Oslo Accords and subsequent peace initiatives.
Critics of New Zealand’s position argue that delaying recognition risks perpetuating the status quo, in which Palestinians lack full sovereignty and face ongoing challenges under Israeli occupation. Proponents, however, contend that premature recognition could undermine diplomatic efforts and further polarize the parties involved. The debate reflects the broader complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where competing narratives and entrenched positions continue to shape international responses.
Historical Context: A Conflict Rooted in Decades of Struggle
To fully understand the significance of Peters’ address and New Zealand’s position, it is essential to consider the historical context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The roots of the conflict trace back to the early 20th century, when competing national movements—Zionism and Palestinian nationalism—emerged in the region then known as Palestine under Ottoman and later British control. The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, following the UN’s partition plan, marked a turning point, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in what is known as the Nakba, or “catastrophe.”
Subsequent decades saw a series of wars, uprisings, and failed peace processes, including the Six-Day War of 1967, which resulted in Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s offered hope for a negotiated two-state solution, but disagreements over key issues—such as borders, refugees, and the status of Jerusalem—have repeatedly derailed progress. Gaza, in particular, has been a flashpoint, with Israel imposing a blockade in 2007 following Hamas’s takeover of the territory.
The events of October 7, 2023, marked a new and devastating chapter in the conflict. Hamas’s attack, which targeted Israeli civilians and military outposts, was the deadliest in Israel’s history, prompting a massive retaliatory campaign. The scale of the response, coupled with the humanitarian toll, has reignited global debates about the proportionality of military actions, the rights of occupied populations, and the path to lasting peace.
New Zealand’s engagement with the conflict has historically been guided by its commitment to international law, human rights, and multilateralism. As a small nation with a strong tradition of independent foreign policy, New Zealand has often positioned itself as a voice for fairness and dialogue. Its support for UN resolutions condemning settlement expansion in the occupied territories and its contributions to Palestinian refugee aid reflect this approach. Peters’ address builds on this legacy, while navigating the delicate balance of addressing immediate humanitarian needs and long-term political solutions.
Global Reactions and the Path Forward
The international community has responded to the Gaza crisis with a mix of urgency and frustration. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has faced criticism for its continued military support while simultaneously calling for restraint and increased aid. European nations, including France and Germany, have expressed growing concern about the humanitarian situation, with some advocating for stronger measures to hold all parties accountable. Meanwhile, countries in the Middle East, such as Egypt and Jordan, have played a critical role in facilitating aid and mediating ceasefire talks, though their efforts have been hampered by the intensity of the conflict.
The United Nations has been a central platform for addressing the crisis, with the General Assembly and Security Council holding multiple sessions to debate resolutions and coordinate humanitarian responses. However, divisions among permanent Security Council members, particularly the United States, Russia, and China, have limited the body’s ability to take decisive action. Peters’ speech at the General Assembly reinforces New Zealand’s call for collective responsibility and adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the facilitation of aid.
Looking ahead, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges. A sustainable ceasefire would require agreement on key issues, including the release of hostages, the withdrawal of military forces, and guarantees for civilian safety. Beyond the immediate crisis, long-term solutions will depend on addressing the root causes of the conflict, including the occupation, economic disparities, and mutual distrust. Initiatives such as the Arab Peace Initiative, which proposes normalized relations between Israel and Arab states in exchange for a Palestinian state, could serve as a framework, though significant political will is needed to revive such efforts.
For Gaza’s residents, the immediate priority is survival. Humanitarian organizations estimate that billions of dollars will be needed to rebuild the enclave’s infrastructure and restore basic services. The international community, including small but committed nations like New Zealand, will play a vital role in funding these efforts and advocating for accountability. Peters’ announcement of additional aid signals New Zealand’s willingness to contribute, but the scale of the crisis demands a coordinated global response.
New Zealand’s Role in Global Diplomacy
New Zealand’s involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict reflects its broader foreign policy priorities, which emphasize peace, human rights, and multilateral cooperation. As a member of the United Nations and a participant in various international forums, New Zealand has consistently advocated for solutions that uphold international law and protect vulnerable populations. Its contributions to UNRWA, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian aid programs demonstrate a commitment to making a tangible difference, despite its geographic distance from the Middle East.
Peters’ address also highlights New Zealand’s nuanced approach to complex global issues. By calling for a ceasefire and increased aid while maintaining a cautious stance on Palestinian statehood, the government seeks to navigate the delicate balance between principle and pragmatism. This approach has drawn both praise and criticism, with some commending New Zealand’s measured diplomacy and others urging a bolder stance on recognition and accountability.
As the world watches the unfolding tragedy in Gaza, New Zealand’s voice serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, dialogue, and collective action. The road to peace is long and uncertain, but Peters’ message underscores the need for immediate steps to alleviate suffering and lay the groundwork for a just resolution.
Conclusion
Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ address to the 80th session of the UN General Assembly encapsulates New Zealand’s unwavering commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and supporting a path to peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased aid, Peters reaffirmed New Zealand’s dedication to humanitarian principles and international law. The announcement of additional financial support underscores the urgency of the situation, while the government’s cautious approach to Palestinian statehood reflects a strategic vision for sustainable peace.
The crisis in Gaza, marked by unprecedented loss of life and widespread destruction, demands a global response rooted in compassion and accountability. As New Zealand joins the international community in advocating for an end to the violence, its actions serve as a call to action for all nations to prioritize the well-being of civilians and work toward a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and dignity. The challenges are immense, but with sustained effort and collective resolve, there remains hope for a brighter future in the region.
