New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has strongly criticized Israel's leader Benjamin Netanyahu, saying he has 'lost the plot' over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Luxon condemned the lack of humanitarian aid, forced displacement, and annexation of Gaza, calling recent attacks on Gaza City 'utterly unacceptable.'

The remarks come as New Zealand considers whether to formally recognize a Palestinian state, following similar moves by other countries. Protests outside parliament have called on politicians to take a stronger stance, while inside, tensions flared with the suspension of Greens parliamentarian Chloe Swarbrick after she refused to apologize for comments about government inaction.

The debate highlights growing pressure on New Zealand's government to address the crisis and reconsider its position on Palestinian statehood.