17762 (2026). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Written Question
Published date: 13 May 2026
17762 (2026). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Foreign Affairs: What actions or statements (if any) is the minister taking or making in respect of the bulldozing of New Zealand war graves in Gaza?
Rt Hon Winston Peters: 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.