A Palestinian affairs expert says recognising statehood without concrete follow-up action would be “meaningless” as New Zealand considers its position on the issue.
Australian National University senior lecturer Anas Iqtait, who has worked for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on Palestinian Issues, told Q+A that recognition followed by inaction would “cement the current realities” for Palestinians.
The Government has said it will decide soon how and when to recognise a Palestinian state, following moves by Australia, Canada, and the UK towards recognition.
Iqtait argued Western states should instead sanction Israel for its operations in the West Bank and Gaza, describing this as “the more obvious path”.
For the full interview, watch the video above
Q+A with Jack Tame is made with the support of New Zealand On Air
