PFLP-linked New Zealand party running on Palestine platform enters election, sparking concern
The Palestine Free from the River to the Sea Party was almost not allowed to register following the submission of over 200 submissions opposing it.
Less than two months before New Zealand's general elections, a party promoting a pro-Palestine platform enters the race, prompting concern over normalized Israel-Jew relations. The Palestine Free from the River to the Sea Party, founded by Paul Hopkinson who also leads the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) campaign in New Zealand, is not facing registration issues despite opposition from over 200 submissions.
With over 500 members, the party has secured election broadcasting funds and will appear on the ballot. Their three main goals include forming a democratic party for Palestinian supporters, pressuring New Zealand to prosecute war crimes, and recognizing Palestinian liberation as intertwined with the fight against imperialism. The party calls for Palestinian refugee return to their homeland and dismantling the State of Israel.
Hopkinson asserts that his party will hold other parties accountable on Palestine, opposing the designation of Hamas and other Palestinian groups as terrorists in New Zealand. The party's focus on Palestinian liberation has sparked debate over Zionism becoming an election issue, with the Israel Institute of New Zealand spokesperson Greg Bouwer warning that it may lead to inflammatory rhetoric.
Concerns arise as antisemitism in New Zealand continues to rise, with 2025 recording the highest number of incidents ever.
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