As New Zealanders, we have felt the profound impacts of colonization by force, particularly within our indigenous communities. We are all aware of the modern realities that current occupants of Gaza Strip and West Bank face. Therefore, we are propelled by a sense of duty and empathy to advocate for an end to the Israeli occupation.

Israel's extension onto these territories has been branded as a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which significantly prohibits an occupying country from shifting its population to areas it occupies (International Court of Justice, 2004). Tragically, well over 600,000 Israelis now reside in these occupied spaces, leading to a present Palestine where resources are stretched thin and tension is high.

Our proposition is specific: for the Israeli embassy in New Zealand to be closed until a UN resolution is passed explicitly banning Israeli occupation of the Gaza Strip or West Bank. This would not only stand as a symbolic demonstration of our stern objection to Israel's displacement of the Palestinian people but also pressure the international community into more urgently addressing this matter.

As New Zealanders, we must lend our voices to echo the call of Palestinians for the restoration of their legitimate rights. We appeal you to help us in this mission. Please, sign this petition and take a stand against colonization and for justice and peace.