Date: Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:05:31 +0000
Subject: Official Information request - Assessment of Public Sentiment, Palestinian Statehood Recognition, and Historical Context in Foreign Policy (7 October 2023 - 1 February 2024)
From: "Lance D. Lavery" <[email address]>
To: ENQUIRIES <[MFAT request email]>

Dear Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade,

As part of our ongoing comprehensive nine-part series under the Official Information Act 1982, this seventh instalment focuses on the influence of public sentiment, Palestinian statehood recognition, and historical context on foreign policy during the Gaza crisis from 7 October 2023 to 1 February 2024.

Our journey thus far has spanned a variety of crucial topics. We have scrutinised the impact of humanitarian aid, analysed the support for specialised healthcare systems, and evaluated the influences on educational and cultural sectors. Additionally, we have thoroughly examined the transparency of financial contributions and the dynamics of sanctions, diplomatic relations, and peacekeeping efforts. The series has also delved into the diplomatic actions and international strategies in response to the crisis.

Building upon this foundation, our objective is to investigate the ways in which public opinion, the multifaceted issue of Palestinian statehood recognition, and historical viewpoints contribute to and shape New Zealand's foreign policy choices.

Part Seven: Analysis of Public Sentiment, Palestinian Statehood Recognition, and
Historical Context in Foreign Policy

1.Expanded Public Sentiment Analysis:

•What are the key findings from recent public opinion polls or studies on the Gaza crisis?
•How has public sentiment towards the crisis evolved since 7 October 2023?
•What are the implications of these sentiment trends for New Zealand's foreign policy?

2.Deeper Impact of Public Sentiment on Foreign Policy:

•Can you provide examples where public opinion significantly influenced New Zealand’s diplomatic stance in the Gaza crisis?
•What mechanisms does New Zealand employ to integrate public opinion into foreign policy decisions?
•How is public sentiment monitored and assessed for its impact on policy formulation?

3.Comprehensive Stance on Palestinian Statehood:

•What is New Zealand’s current official position on Palestinian statehood?
•How has this position evolved since 7 October 2023?
•What historical policy perspectives have shaped New Zealand’s stance on Palestinian statehood?

4.Extended Analysis of Statehood Recognition's Impact on Diplomacy:

•How has Palestinian statehood recognition influenced New Zealand’s diplomatic actions during the Gaza crisis?
•What are the primary considerations guiding New Zealand’s position on Palestinian statehood?
•How does New Zealand’s stance on statehood recognition compare to its traditional diplomatic allies?

5.Broader International Comparative Analysis:

•How do other democracies approach public sentiment and statehood recognition in similar crises?
•What role has New Zealand played in international discussions on Palestinian statehood?
•How does New Zealand's position on Palestinian statehood recognition compare with that of other democratic nations?

6.Historical References and Recognition:

•How has New Zealand recognised historical references to Palestine as mentioned by historians like Herodotus, Flavius Josephus, and as depicted in the Madaba Map?
•In what ways have historical references to Palestine influenced New Zealand's foreign policy, particularly regarding the recognition of Palestinian statehood?
•Can you detail how historical accounts and references shape New Zealand’s stance on Palestinian statehood and its broader foreign policy?

I anticipate a comprehensive response by 12 February 2024. This detailed information will enhance our understanding of the interplay between public sentiment, historical context, and foreign policy in complex international situations like the Gaza crisis.

I appreciate your attention to these prominent issues. For any clarifications, please contact me through the fyi.org.nz webserver.

Yours faithfully,

Lance D. Lavery

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