Appeal for New Zealand to demand International Humanitarian Law protection for Gaza-bound aid flotilla

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

18 September 2025

Media Release

Appeal for New Zealand to demand International Humanitarian Law protection for Gaza-bound aid flotilla 

Late this afternoon PSNA sent this self-explanatory letter to the Prime Minister.

John Minto
Co-Chair PSNA

Letter sent to Prime Minister

Rt Hon Christopher Luxon
Prime Minister
Parliament Buildings
Wellington
c.luxon@ministers.govt.nz

Kia ora Mr Luxon,

Appeal for New Zealand to demand International Humanitarian Law protection for Gaza-bound aid flotilla

An international flotilla of ships and boats is sailing towards Gaza loaded with humanitarian relief supplies for the beleaguered Palestinians living there and suffering from Israeli-perpetrated mass killing and mass starvation of the population.

The people on the flotilla represent the very best of human values and are standing up for humanity when many governments, including our own, are failing to uphold these values.

We are requesting our government inform Israel that Aotearoa New Zealand expects them to facilitate the entry of this humanitarian convoy so it can deliver the desperately needed food, water and medical supplies.

Already 16 other countries have made this request of Israel to respect International Humanitarian Law. These countries are: Türkiye, Qatar, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, the Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, and Spain.

We want New Zealand to join this call.

Unfortunately, In the past Israel has attacked and boarded vessels bringing aid to Gaza, killing many people and illegally detaining others. Israel has already launched at least two drone attacks on vessels which are part of this flotilla. 

There are three New Zealanders aboard this international flotilla and we want our government to stand up for them and for all the internationals taking part in this mercy-mission to Gaza.

Please respond urgently to this appeal.

We look forward to hearing from you shortly.

Ngā mihi.

Nā,

John Minto
Co-Chair PSNA