New Zealand refuses to recognise Palestinian state ‘at this time’
The country's foreign minister warned that a premature move could “complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions.”
September 27, 2025 10:00 AM IST
First published on: Sep 27, 2025 at 10:00 AM IST
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Minister for Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Winston Peters addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, UN Headquarters. (AP Photo)
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said in New York on Friday that the country will not recognise the State of Palestine for now, though it remains committed to a two-state solution. “With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time,” Peters told the United Nations General Assembly, according to Reuters.
He warned that a premature move could “complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions.”
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How does this differ from allies’ positions?
The stance sets New Zealand apart from traditional partners Australia, Canada and Britain, all of whom recognised a Palestinian state earlier this week. More than 140 other countries have already granted recognition, Reuters reported.
A government handout said Wellington hopes to recognise Palestine in the future, but only when conditions on the ground offer greater prospects for peace and negotiation than at present.
Labour’s foreign affairs spokesperson Peeni Henare said many in the country would be disappointed. “There is no two-state solution or enduring peace in the Middle East without recognition of Palestine as a state,” he said according to Reuters.
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Minister for Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Winston Peters addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, UN Headquarters. (AP Photo) 
