New Zealand Asked To Join US Military Coalition

The United States has invited New Zealand to join a multinational coalition aimed at reopening shipping routes blocked since the Middle East war began. Vinusci Walters stated New Zealand may participate only under strict conditions. These conditions include a sustainable ceasefire and compliance with international law, ideally via a UN mandate with Iran's consent to avoid New Zealand being treated as a belligerent party. The US invitation follows discussions regarding a mission led by Britain and France. Both officials stated New Zealand would only consider participation if a sustained ceasefire in the Iran war is achieved. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has also participated in meetings regarding a similar plan led by France and the United Kingdom. Both Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis stated that more information is required before any formal decisions are made. The initiative follows economic concerns regarding the potential weekly cost of a closure in the strait. Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp stated the New Zealand Defence Force could provide P-8 Poseidon aircraft to monitor activity in the shipping route. Mapp noted that hostilities continue to cause casualties, with the majority of those killed being women and children. New Zealand officials noted that neither the US nor the British-French proposals are currently firm. The initiative aims to secure maritime access in the region.