Part 2/7:
In response, a senior Israeli government official, specifically the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, fired back at Luxon’s comments. She highlighted the stark differences in security circumstances, stating, "When you don't really need an army because your most deadly enemy is a possum or cat, you wouldn't comprehend the challenges that come with facing Hamas, a jihadist death cult only a few kilometers away from your country that rape, execute, burn alive, and starve your people." This pointed retort underscores the complex security threats faced by Israel, contrasting them sharply with New Zealand's relatively peaceful environment for illustration.