In the face of global criticism over Gaza, Israel finds unlikely allies in Pacific Island nations, standing steady as other longstanding partnerships waver.

 

Small but mighty, countries like Fiji and Papua New Guinea have consistently backed Israel at the United Nations, where votes from these nations hold the same weight as those of global superpowers. This support is crucial as the war continues, causing outrage among politically active youth in the Pacific.

 

At a June UN resolution calling for a ceasefire, countries such as Micronesia, Fiji, and Tonga stood with Israel, marking strong opposition to the consensus. Notably, Micronesia boasts a flawless record of voting in Israel's favour over the past decade. In a significant gesture, Papua New Guinea, along with five other nations, has even opened an embassy in Jerusalem to recognise it as Israel’s capital.

 

Experts like Prof Steven Ratuva highlight the religious ties that bind these Pacific nations to Israel, where Christianity prevails heavily. For many Pacific Christians, supporting a Jewish-inhabited Israel aligns with their religious beliefs, guiding government alignments.

 

While these alliances might seem politically expedient, Israel has smartly leveraged its connections by offering aid and development assistance, seeking friends amid increasing global censure. “It’s only interested in getting support from states over what it’s doing right now in Gaza,” Ratuva explains.

 

Locally, support for Israel is visible throughout Fiji, with flags waving at churches and rugby games. Yet, there are those speaking out against this unwavering support, like the Fijians for Palestine solidarity network. They push back but face challenges, with protests often meeting resistance. Recently, public readings from Gaza were held to raise awareness, albeit with fears of reprisal among the activists.

 

In Samoa, a young group boldly marched in support of Palestine, though their numbers were dwarfed by a pro-Israel rally organised by evangelical churches. Despite these challenges, voices for change are growing stronger, as evidenced by unexpected public responses at recent protests.

 

Israel continues to nurture these Pacific partnerships through diplomatic visits, reinforcing bonds across the ocean. Even amidst controversies, as with a recent diplomatic spat with Australia, Israel's dedication to the Pacific remains steadfast.

For now, the small Pacific nations hold their position, presenting complex dynamics in an increasingly tense international landscape.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian 2025-09-06

 

 

 

The Palestinians are going to adapt well to island life. No bombs, airstrikes, shelling! Schools and hospitals! Live doctors! No settlers. It's a win-win & Israel can pay the bill.

Using the word “woes” to describe what’s happening in Gaza minimizes the scale of the crisis. It makes mass killings, displacement, and destruction sound like minor troubles rather than what many human rights organizations and observers are calling genocide or ethnic cleansing. Language matters-calling it “woes” obscures the severity of the situation. 

Always liked the Pacific Islanders. I spent some time there in 97.

 

Strong moral friendly people. They know right from wrong. 

 

No surprise they back Israel defending themselves against the evil of Hamas.

 

RIP the victims of October 7. 

On 9/6/2025 at 3:14 PM, JimCM said:

Using the word “woes” to describe what’s happening in Gaza minimizes the scale of the crisis. It makes mass killings, displacement, and destruction sound like minor troubles rather than what many human rights organizations and observers are calling genocide or ethnic cleansing. Language matters-calling it “woes” obscures the severity of the situation. 

When did they change the definition of genocide and ethnic cleansing? 

11 hours ago, 300sd said:

When did they change the definition of genocide and ethnic cleansing? 

Who?

11 hours ago, JonnyF said:

RIP the victims of October 7. 

You forget to mention the 20,000 Palestinian children who Israel killed.

Have you any sympathy for them?