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Is the Minister aware that the Australian Federal Police is reported to be investigating claims involving Australian citizens who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla, following a request from Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and what assessment, if any, has the Government made of whether a comparable response is warranted in respect of the New Zealand citizens who participated in the flotilla and were detained in May 2026?

Answered Question 29604 (2026)
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Asked by

Vanushi Walters

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Is the Minister aware that the Australian Federal Police is reported to be investigating claims involving Australian citizens who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla, following a request from Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and what assessment, if any, has the Government made of whether a comparable response is warranted in respect of the New Zealand citizens who participated in the flotilla and were detained in May 2026?

Answered by

Rt Hon Winston Peters

List MP · NZ First · Minister of Foreign Affairs

Answer

Yes. We are aware of those reports. Furhter representations can only take place with the consent of the New Zealanders involved. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not have investigatory powers, and we are advised that the Ministry has no knowledge of whether the individuals have approached New Zealand Police on this matter.