New Zealand's Human Rights Commission is urging people to report Islamophobia, anti-Semitism or other discrimination as the conflict in the Middle East continues.
In an escalation of the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant groups, Hamas led a surprise offensive on Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7. In response, Israel formally declared war against Hamas and launched a counter-offensive.
Thousands of people, including civilians, have died on both sides since the attack.
However, the violence hasn't been confined to just the Middle East with cases of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism relating to the war sparking around the world.
In New Zealand, there were reports of disorder at the Auckland War Memorial Museum over the weekend.
A "verbal confrontation" is said to have unfolded between Palestine supporters and a group of Israel supporters at the museum on Sunday.
Auckland Museum was lit up blue in white in solidarity with Israel which attracted supporters from both sides. A number of police officers responded to "maintain the peace", though there were no reports of injury, and no arrests were made.
The museum has since apologised for the distress and hurt its approach caused.
Te Amokapua Chief Human Rights Commissioner Paul Hunt said all New Zealand organisations must be careful of actions they take at this time that may heighten tensions here.
"We support the calls of the United Nations Secretary-General for all sides to immediately adhere to international human rights and humanitarian law – to protect the lives, health and dignity of all,” Hunt said.
Around the country, peaceful protests in support of both sides have been held since the war erupted.
However, the Commission is urging New Zealanders to keep human rights front of mind as we come to terms with the "terrible violence" in the Middle East.
"Our thoughts are with all communities affected here in Aotearoa New Zealand following the horrific loss of life and violence in Israel and Gaza," Hunt said.
"It's terrifying to see such events unfold and to be far away from loved ones. We know this is a stressful, tense time for many, especially those with whānau in the region. It is a time for empathy, manaaki and mutual respect for each other."
The Human Rights Act makes it unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of religious belief, ethical belief, colour, race, ethnic or national origin, or political opinion.
The Chief Commissioner said everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand has a role to play in contributing to peaceful relations here, including being mindful of the language used online or in-person.
"It's at moments like this that we are called on to demonstrate our common humanity to each other," Hunt said.
The Commission encourages community members to get in contact if they think they are experiencing anti-Semitism or Islamophobia, or other forms of discrimination.
If you think you have experienced discrimination or harmful speech, you can contact Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission for information and support here.
