More protests for Palestine planned throughout Aotearoa this weekend

Rallies will take place in eight locations across New Zealand to protest the actions of Israel against Palestinians.

This follows a series of protests that took place last weekend.

National chair of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa John Minto says the New Zealand government has good policy, but they need to “give it some teeth”.

“Last week we saw the biggest protest we’ve seen on this issue for a very long time, and this weekend I think we’ll see even bigger.”

Mr Minto says New Zealand needs to boycott Israel, like South Africa was during apartheid.

New Zealand supports the United Nation’s resolution 2334 issued in 2016 stating Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory violate international law.

“The Government needs to bring that resolution to the fore.”

Mr Minto says it is important for New Zealand to show what side they’re on.

“Public opinion is moving very strongly to the side of Palestinians,” he says.

Green Party foreign affairs and human rights spokesperson, Golriz Ghahraman has called for the government to join the Greens in recognising Palestinian self-determination and statehood.

“This is about acknowledging the humanity and dignity of Palestinians at a time when they are facing extreme violence and degradation, once again, at the hands of Israeli occupying forces,” Ghahraman says.

Aotea Square in the Auckland CBD will host another rally this Saturday.