Prime Minister John Key says he has grave concerns for the loss of innocent life, particularly of children, in the conflict in Gaza.
Fighting between Israel and the Palestinian movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip has entered its 18th day.
Mr Key says the Government is continuing to call for a ceasefire, but he says that cannot happen unless both sides pull back.
He says the leaders of Hamas and Israel should show some leadership and end the fighting, something which he says is within their powers.
Mr Key says New Zealand's position on the fighting is closely matched to that of the United Nations and Britain.
