New Zealand announced it will not recognize a Palestinian state, citing Hamas’s continued control over Gaza as a barrier to peace. Foreign Minister Winston Peters delivered the decision during a press conference in Wellington, stating, “With Hamas still in power, peace isn’t possible right now,” a stance reported by Radio New Zealand. This marks a divergence from recent moves by Canada, the UK, and Australia, who recognized Palestine earlier this month.

Peters emphasized New Zealand’s long-standing support for a two-state solution but argued that current conditions, including over 41,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023 and Hamas’s governance, undermine the feasibility of statehood. He referenced the deteriorating security situation, with Israel’s ongoing military operations and recent intelligence linking Hamas to aid diversion, as key factors. The decision aligns with Japan’s earlier refusal to recognize Palestine, reflecting a cautious approach amid regional instability.