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The Whanganui District Council in New Zealand has passed a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The motion, moved by Councillor Josh Chandulal-Mackay on behalf of the Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa, also condemns all acts of violence and terror against civilians on both sides of the conflict and calls for the immediate return of hostages. The council's decision aligns with the principles of promoting peace, unity, and human rights. It also advocates for a two-state solution and negotiations for peace. The motion was supported by Mayor Andrew Tripe, and all but one councillor voted in favor. The council also called on the New Zealand government to support an immediate ceasefire in Gaza [238a68c1] [d8e466c2].
This latest development in New Zealand follows the recent vote by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. India, along with 13 other countries, abstained from voting on the resolution, while 28 countries voted in favor. India's decision to abstain aligns with its longstanding position of advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people. The resolution also stressed the need for accountability for war crimes in Palestine [c2594544] [979d48dd].
The Whanganui District Council's motion was supported by various community groups and individuals. The council received two petitions, one calling for a ceasefire and the other calling for the council not to do business with companies involved in illegal Israeli settlements. The council's decision was seen as a positive step towards promoting peace and justice in the region [238a68c1].
In a related development, the Santa Monica City Council in California is set to discuss a resolution condemning the violence in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The resolution supports a negotiated bilateral ceasefire and calls for humanitarian aid to Palestinians, the end of Hamas's rule in Gaza, due process for prisoners, and the release of Israeli hostages. The proposal comes after advocates demanded the City oppose Israel's military actions. Santa Monica College and Crossroads School have also faced accusations of antisemitism. The Santa Monica Police Department reports that hate crimes in 2024 are on pace with the previous year. The number of reported incidents remains steady but is believed to be underreported [508bf268].
US Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman from New Jersey's 12th District has issued a statement in support of a permanent ceasefire plan in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The statement, released on May 29, 2024, expresses Watson Coleman's support for the plan and calls for an end to the violence. Watson Coleman emphasizes the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolutions in resolving the conflict. The statement is part of Watson Coleman's efforts to address global conflicts and promote peacebuilding initiatives. The plan aims to achieve a lasting peace and address the root causes of the conflicts. Watson Coleman urges all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution [0710619d].