New Zealand cannot remain silent on Gaza violence, says Chlöe Swarbrick.
The Green Party is calling on Government MPs to support Chlöe Swarbrick's Member's Bill to sanction Israel for its actions in Palestine. The bill aims to address the "unlawful presence and illegal actions" of Israel in the region. In recent days, at least 400 civilians have been killed in Gaza, mostly children and women.
The Green Party co-leader says New Zealand must act now to sanction Israel, just as it did with Russia for its actions in Ukraine. With Labour's support, six Government MPs are needed to pass the bill into law. This comes after Aotearoa joined 123 UN Member States in September calling for sanctions against those responsible for Israel's presence in Palestine.
Chlöe Swarbrick states that no party leader or whip can stop a Member of Parliament exercising their democratic right to vote on this Bill. The Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill starts the process of fulfilling Aotearoa's commitment to support sanctions against Israel.
The recent airstrikes by Israel in Gaza City, Khan Younis, Deir Al-Balah and Rafah have resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life, with entire families wiped out. The attacks come during the holy month of Ramadhan and follow weeks of a total siege on entry of aid and supplies into Gaza.
According to UNICEF, at least 48,577 Palestinians have been killed, and 112,041 wounded, throughout Israel's war on Gaza. In the West Bank, 43 Palestinian children have been killed since last October, a spike of nearly 250%.