IEJ Joins Global Stand Against Genocide Libel

Media Release

10 September 2026

Indigenous Embassy Jerusalem Joins Global Stand Against Genocide Libel 

For months Māori media and public figures have characterised Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide. Commentators who have tried to address the misinformation have been silenced and marginalised. 

The recent visit to Israel of a Māori delegation has caused a furore amongst many who have uncritically embraced an anti-Israel narrative. Most who take the time to visit Israel quickly realise the accusations they’ve been exposed to - that Israel is guilty of apartheid, ethnic cleansing and genocide -  do not stand up to scrutiny. The Israel portrayed in much of mainstream media is largely fictional. There’s no better way to gain an accurate picture than to go and see for oneself.

While Indigenous Embassy Jerusalem has not been involved in the organisation of these delegations, we must point out that Māori have every right to travel to Israel to see the situation on the ground. Indeed we encourage it. Israel is a free country that does not hide its dirty laundry. Every issue is fiercely debated in Israel. 

Indigenous Embassy Jerusalem is proud to be a co-signatory with more than 5,000 global leaders in an open letter rejecting the accusation that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. This libellous charge has become a dangerous catalyst for antisemitism in New Zealand and around the world.

Given that opposition to Māori delegations to Israel is largely based on the genocide and other libels, we challenge Māori media to read this open letter, to listen to and engage with Māori who have a different perspective, and given the opportunity, to travel to Israel to see for themselves. 

https://www.creativecommunityforpeace.com/blog/2026/09/08/rejectlie/