Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick has launched a scathing critique of the recently freed Israeli hostages, alleging their emaciated appearances are a deliberate affront to the global body-positive movement.
“These individuals, despite what they will tell you of their ordeal*, have irresponsibly paraded their skeletal frames in public, perpetuating harmful beauty standards,” Swarbrick said at a press conference this afternoon. “Apartheid in Israel extends to those who are body positive.”
The hostages, who endured months of captivity in Gaza, were released looking visibly frail and malnourished, leading to images beamed around the world which Swarbrick believes were “designed to shame marginalized bodies.”
Swarbrick expressed concern that this incident is part of a larger pattern of the Israeli government failing to align with progressive values. “First, they practised self-defence, now we’re seeing this level of cultural insensitivity. There is other state that comes to mind, either today or in world history, that would go after a marginalized group in such an “in your face” way. We need to send a clear message. Sanctions must be on the table.”
Swarbrick’s comments have sparked debate on social media, with critics accusing her of using hostages as a political soapbox. “They had a choice,” she clarified, “A report we received from the PSNA (Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa) came with a standard Hamas menu that would far surpass any offering on Auckland’s Waterfront. The Israelis clearly intended to send a dangerous message to our + size whanau”
The Green Party has proposed a motion to formally condemn Israel, urging other nations to follow New Zealand’s lead in holding the Jewish state accountable for its perceived infractions against progressive ideals.
Swarbrick added that her party will be drafting legislation to ensure that all future hostage releases comply with equity, diversity, and inclusion standards.
*Swarbrick gestured air quotes as she said ordeal.
Originally published on https://chimpchronicles.substack.com/ 10/02/25
