New Zealanders file lawsuit over BlackSky spy satellite launches

Three New Zealanders, including an engineer and a Māori medical doctor, have filed a lawsuit at the Wellington High Court seeking a judicial review of government policy regarding BlackSky spy satellite launches. The plaintiffs argue that the government's approval of these launches from the Rocket Lab site in Māhia risks providing Israeli military forces with targeting data used in attacks on the Gaza Strip.

The legal challenge targets decisions made by the Ministers for Space, Judith Collins and Chris Penk. Advocacy group Justice for Palestine has welcomed the proceedings, stating the case highlights potential New Zealand complicity in war crimes and questions whether the government is meeting its obligations under the Genocide Convention and other international laws.