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What actions or statements (if any) is the minister taking or making in respect of the bulldozing of New Zealand war graves in Gaza?

Answered Question 17762 (2026)
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Asked by

Duncan Webb

Member for Christchurch Central · Labour Party

Question

  • What actions or statements (if any) is the minister taking or making in respect of the bulldozing of New Zealand war graves in Gaza?

Answered by

Rt Hon Winston Peters

List MP · NZ First · Minister of Foreign Affairs

Answer

We raised our serious concerns with Israel as soon as we found out about the damage and we expect them to repair the war graves when it is safe to do so. The New Zealand Ambassador to Israel has raised the issue directly with the Government of Israel, conveying New Zealand's expectation that the graves of New Zealand, Pacific and Commonwealth service personnel are to be treated with the utmost respect. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Ministry for Culture and Heritage are in close contact with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), which cares for the cemeteries, to understand the damage.