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March 01, 2026
#international: New Zealand Government Issues Joint Statement on Middle East Tensions
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 1, 2026
The New Zealand Government has released a joint statement from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters addressing the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, and outlining Wellington’s position in the wake of recent military actions.
The statement affirms that New Zealand has long condemned Iran’s nuclear programme, its destabilising regional activities and the repression of its own people. It notes that recent strikes by Israel and the United States were intended to prevent further threats to international peace and security.
Alongside reiterating concerns about Tehran’s military ambitions, the Government has also expressed strong condemnation of Iran’s indiscriminate retaliatory attacks on neighbouring countries. Officials emphasised the need to avoid further escalation and highlighted the importance of protecting civilian lives amid a rapidly developing situation.
Wellington’s foreign policy stance calls for respect for international law and a negotiated diplomatic solution, urging the Iranian leadership to seek a peaceful path back into the community of nations. The statement also warns that continued military confrontation risks further destabilising the wider Middle East.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is closely monitoring the situation on the ground and is providing support to New Zealanders in the region. Citizens in both Israel and Iran are being advised to shelter in place if travel is unsafe, and to stay registered with the government’s SafeTravel system so their location and wellbeing can be tracked during ongoing instability.
This development comes as the wider international community urges restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement in response to the intensifying conflict that has drawn global attention.
Overall, Wellington’s position combines condemnation of destabilising activity with a call for diplomacy, reflecting New Zealand’s long-standing foreign policy emphasis on peaceful resolution and adherence to international norms.
