Winston Peters defends stance on Palestinian statehood

Atereano Mateariki Winston Peters | Winston Peters defends stance on Palestinian statehood

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Foreign Minister Winston Peters is defending the government’s decision not to recognise a Palestinian state at this time, following significant backlash at home and abroad.

Speaking after his return from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Peters said the government is taking a careful, criteria-based approach.

“Well, look, those who are the complaining, had the chance when they were there from Helen Clark all the way to Hipkins. He had a chance to recognise Palestine. They didn’t think was appropriate then, why would they think it’s appropriate now? I mean, just can’t be lions in opposition and lambs when you get the job of being in government, and that’s their record,” says Peters.

New Zealand’s position is based on concerns that Palestine does not yet meet the criteria for statehood, including full control over its territory and population.

Peters says recognition now could be politically manipulated and undermine efforts toward peace.

“We made it very, very clear, if you follow that speech, we did not support what Israel was doing. We made it very clear that what we expect, we’re for a two state solution, as are so many countries who align with us as well. And we are not going to give up on that,” says Peters.

Peters insists the government’s stance is about acting with integrity, not “virtue signaling,” and believes most New Zealanders will support the outcome once they understand the reasoning.

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