New Zealand has imposed travel bans on three Israeli settlers, citing concerns over violent activity linked to the expansion of disputed settlements in the West Bank.
The travel bans, announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, align New Zealand’s position with similar measures already taken by Australia and the European Union.
“Our travel bans are not about the Israeli people nor the Israeli government,” Peters said.
The individuals now subject to New Zealand’s travel ban are Itamar Yehuda Levi, Harel David Libi, and Eliav Libi.
“This action is against three individuals whose use of violence and displacement is destabilising the West Bank. We have been clear such actions are unacceptable.”
Peters said the individuals’ actions “threaten peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians” and risk pushing the region further into crisis.
He reaffirmed New Zealand’s support for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, warning that continued expansion of illegal Israeli settlements undermines prospects for a negotiated settlement and complicates efforts toward long-term regional stability.