Hamas has launched its biggest attack on Israel in 50 years – and Israel has already begun retaliating in what it has described as 'war'
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has condemned Hamas' "terror attacks" on Israel, after the Palestinian Islamist group killed hundreds of people and took hostages in Israeli towns.
More than 250 people have been killed in Israel after the surprise attack with many hostages taken, while more than 230 people in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory strikes.
The total number of Israelis captured was "several times greater" than dozens, a spokesperson for the armed wing of Hamas said in a recording aired shortly after midnight on Sunday, foreign media has reported.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has expressed "grave concern" at the escalation of violence.
“New Zealand condemns unequivocally the terror attacks led by Hamas on Israel. We are appalled by the targeting of civilians, and the taking of hostages which violate fundamental international humanitarian law principles.
“New Zealand has designated the military wing of Hamas as a terrorist organisation, and we recognise Israel’s right to defend itself.
“We are very concerned that the situation will escalate in the coming days and New Zealand again calls for restraint, the protection of non-combatants, and the upholding of international humanitarian law by all parties.”
Hamas says it launched its attack on Israel in response to Israeli violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
The group's military commander Mohammed Deif said Israeli had to pay for the continuing attacks.
"We have decided to put an end to these Israeli offences with Allah's help, so the enemy understands that the time of wreaking havoc without being held accountable is over."
Israel has since declared a "war", responding with air strikes on the Gaza, with a ground offensive expected imminently.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised to inflict an “unprecedented price".
At least two blocks in Gaza have collapsed from the air strikes already.
Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta says New Zealand is "deeply concerned" about the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Gaza.
In a statement, Mahuta said it was essential to protect all civilians, and uphold international humanitarian law.
Otago University politics professor Robert Patman told RNZ he was glad Mahuta had spoken out, calling for the immediate cessation of violence.
He says there can be no military solution to the conflict, but New Zealand can work with like-minded countries and lend its voice calling for a diplomatic and political solution.
"The only way to facilitate that is for countries like New Zealand to raise their voice and say, what we're witnessing is the symptoms of a conflict, but it's not tackling its causes."
The attack has drawn international condemnation.
US president Joe Biden has declared staunch support for Israel, and the UN Security Council will discuss the violence that has broken out in Israel at an emergency meeting later today.
The European Union, Britain and Ukraine have issued similar statements backing Israel.
However, Iran has congratulated the Hamas fighters and Lebanese militant group, Hezbollah, also said it supported them.
- additional reporting RNZ
