New Zealand extended its terrorist designation to encompass the entire Hamas organization on Thursday, a significant expansion of its policy regarding the Islamist group.

Previously, only Hamas’s military wing had been designated as a “terrorist entity” back in 2010. However, following recent events, including the attacks on October 7, the New Zealand government decided to include Hamas’s political wing under this designation.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters emphasized that distinguishing between the military and political arms of Hamas was no longer feasible, stating that the organization as a whole was accountable for the terrorist activities.

Consequently, all assets belonging to Hamas in New Zealand will be frozen, and providing any form of material support to the group will now constitute a criminal offense.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon clarified that the designation specifically targets Hamas and does not impede private humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians. Additionally, it will not hinder New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza’s civilians or affect consular support for New Zealand citizens or permanent residents in conflict zones.

Despite these measures, New Zealand remains deeply concerned about the impact of the conflict on Gaza’s civilian population. Peters called for an immediate cessation of violence and urged the resumption of the Middle East Peace Process, emphasizing that a lasting resolution to the conflict could only be achieved through peaceful means.