NZ PM tells Netanyahu he has ‘lost the plot’ amid Gaza criticism
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has sharply criticised his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the Israeli leader has “lost the plot” in response to the latest phase of Israel’s military operation in Gaza.
NZ Prime Minister Chris Luxon
Speaking to the New Zealand Herald this week, Luxon described the situation in Gaza as “utterly, utterly appalling” and condemned an overnight attack on Gaza City as “utterly, utterly unacceptable”. He accused Netanyahu of “not listening to the international community” and warned that any attempt at annexation “would likely breach international law”.
Luxon’s comments came after The Elders — an independent group of global leaders, including former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark — described the situation as an “unfolding genocide” following a visit to the Rafah border. Labour leader Chris Hipkins endorsed the term, saying it was “a good description” and calling for the International Court of Justice to examine the case.
ACT leader David Seymour was more cautious, noting the ICJ had not found genocide but only that South Africa’s claim was plausible enough to investigate. He said the Government would take a “sane, sober” approach to the question of Palestinian statehood.
Luxon confirmed that New Zealand is formally reviewing its position on recognising a Palestinian state, a process that will conclude within the next month. Over the weekend, New Zealand joined a statement with several countries — including Australia, France, and Canada — opposing Israel’s new military operation, warning it would aggravate the humanitarian situation and could risk violating international law.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also criticised Netanyahu, accusing him of being “in denial” about the consequences for civilians in Gaza.
Netanyahu has rejected the genocide allegations, telling reporters that if Israel had intended genocide, “it would have taken exactly one afternoon”. He reiterated that Israel’s goal is to “free [Gaza] from Hamas terrorists”, not to occupy the territory.
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Luxon likes the word ‘utterly’.
Clueless is the only word to describe this latest outburst of righteous ignorance. The NZ Govt has no doubt already made up its mind to follow Albanese and recognize a fake “Palestine.” His rhetoric is designed to justify the decision and shift the blame onto Israel. No doubt congratulations will be forthcoming from Hamas and Abbas.
The only ones “losing the plot” are those appeasing jihadist terror promoters.