New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Wednesday that Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu had “lost the plot”, accusing him of exceeding acceptable limits in his military campaign in Gaza.
“What’s happening in Gaza is utterly, utterly appalling,” Luxon told reporters.
“Netanyahu has gone way too far. I think he has lost the plot.”
Luxon added that the Israeli leader was ignoring the international community, a stance he described as unacceptable.
Israeli Military Actions
Netanyahu recently announced plans to take control of Gaza City and eliminate Hamas, claiming it was “the best way to end the war.” His proposals have drawn widespread criticism amid calls to halt the bloodshed.
UN-backed experts have warned of an emerging famine in Gaza, where Israel has severely restricted the entry of humanitarian aid.
| Issue | Details |
| Military operation | Israeli plan to take control of Gaza City and destroy Hamas |
| Criticism | Ignoring international calls to halt violence; UN warns of famine |
| Trigger | Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 |
| International concern | Humanitarian aid severely restricted; widespread civilian suffering |
New Zealand’s Position
Israel has faced mounting international criticism over the war, and New Zealand has signalled its possible recognition of a Palestinian state.
“New Zealand has been clear for some time that our recognition of a Palestinian state is a matter of when, not if,” said Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters.
“Cabinet will take a formal decision in September over whether New Zealand should recognise a state of Palestine at this juncture — and if so, when and how.”
New Zealand could potentially follow countries such as Australia, Canada, France, and Britain in formally recognising Palestine.
