New Zealand’s diplomatic missions in the Middle East are actively monitoring the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. In a significant development, Iran has launched missile attacks in retaliation following military actions by the US and Israel aimed at targeting Iranian government and military leaders.
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has issued guidance for citizens in the region, advising them to shelter in place and heed the advice of local authorities. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters expressed solidarity with the international community in their desire for a swift resolution to the crisis.
In a strong statement, New Zealand condemned Iran’s indiscriminate retaliatory strikes on several Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. They underscored the importance of avoiding further escalation and protecting civilian lives in the region.
While denouncing Iran’s actions, the New Zealand government also criticized the country’s nuclear program and its disruptive activities both regionally and globally. They highlighted the oppression faced by the Iranian people under their current regime, drawing attention to the need for a government that reflects the will of its citizens.
The statement acknowledged that the military actions taken by the US and Israel aimed to curb Iran’s ongoing threat to international peace and security. “Iran has, for decades, defied the will and expectations of the international community,” they pointed out, stressing that the Iranian government has long lost the support of its populace.
New Zealand called for a renewal of diplomatic negotiations and adherence to international law, urging Iranian leadership to pursue a negotiated solution that would re-establish its role within the global community. This call for dialogue reflects a hopeful outlook towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
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