Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand
9 September 2026
Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the New Zealand Government to follow France, the UK, Canada and nine other countries and impose restrictions on trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
Twelve countries have now announced measures targeting trade connected to Israeli settlements, signalling growing international concern over the continued expansion of settlements in occupied Palestinian territory.
Where is New Zealand?
Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank have expanded for decades, involving the transfer of Israeli civilians into occupied territory and the development of homes, businesses and infrastructure on land claimed by Palestinians.
Settlement activity is not simply a political issue. It has significant economic dimensions. Goods produced in settlements enter international markets, while businesses and institutions can become connected to, and benefit from, settlement activity.
New Zealand should not be importing or supporting an economic system that contributes to the entrenchment of settlements in occupied Palestinian territory.
If the Government is serious about international law, human rights and Palestinian self-determination, it must move from statements to action.
Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the Government to:
- Ban imports from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank;
- Prevent New Zealand companies and institutions from supporting or profiting from settlement activity;
- Review government procurement, investment and trade relationships linked to settlements; and
- Join international efforts to impose meaningful economic measures against the settlement enterprise.
The question for the New Zealand Government is straightforward: if France, the United Kingdom, Canada and other governments are prepared to take action, why isn’t New Zealand?
New Zealand should not wait for others to act.
If twelve countries can take action, New Zealand can too.