New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, has announced that the country will expand its evacuation plans from the Middle East to include Pacific Island nationals who are currently stranded due to escalating conflicts in the region. While addressing reporters during his visit to Uruguay, Peters confirmed that two C-130J aircraft from the New Zealand Defence Force are being pre-deployed in anticipation of the need for quick response measures.
Acknowledging the support requests from member nations of the Pacific Islands Forum during previous crises, Peters commented, “You can expect them to ask us as they did during the New Caledonian crisis.” In that incident, New Zealand successfully evacuated a total of 370 individuals, including 145 foreign nationals. Although no Pacific nations have reached out for assistance yet, Peters indicated that New Zealand’s help might not be limited solely to its own citizens.
The current situation is critical, as increasing violence in the Middle East has led to the closure of regional airspace and the suspension of most commercial flights. The number of New Zealanders registered with SafeTravel has notably surged in the last 24 hours, rising from 2,400 to 3,000, with Peters expecting that number to continue climbing.
The two C-130J aircraft are being deployed in advance to facilitate a rapid response, should the security situation permit evacuations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is actively managing a 24/7 response operation in light of the developments in the Middle East, with personnel stationed in the region to assess the situation.
At present, the New Zealand government is advising its citizens in the affected areas to shelter in place, recognizing that evacuation options are severely constrained by airspace closures and halted commercial flights. The operational plan involves relocating individuals from high-risk zones to safer locations instead of transporting them directly back to New Zealand.
Peters emphasized the dedication of the teams involved, remarking, “Our team is working on defense and foreign affairs around the club, using all their experience to ensure that they can intervene to help them in the most safe way possible. So, hang on, help is on its way.” This statement reflects a commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of both New Zealand citizens and those from the Pacific Islands who may find themselves in perilous situations amidst growing regional instability.