Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced plans to cut diplomatic ties with Israel in response to its actions in the Gaza Strip. This move has been met with criticism from human rights advocates and experts who warn of the potential for genocide, as reported by Al Jazeera.
During a gathering on International Workers’ Day in Bogota, Petro stressed the need for countries to take proactive measures in response to the escalating crisis in Gaza. “Standing before you, the government of change, the president of the republic announces that tomorrow we will break diplomatic relations with the state of Israel… for having a government, for having a president who is genocidal,” Petro declared.
Petro, a staunch leader of the left-wing faction, has become a notable figure in the Latin American political scene, aligning himself with the progressive wave known as the “pink tide”. Since taking office in 2022, he has been an outspoken critic of Israel’s actions, particularly in the context of the Gaza war, as reported by Al Jazeera.
The rift between Colombia and Israel deepened in October, following Petro’s condemnation of Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant’s rhetoric, which he compared to that of the Nazis. Gallant’s characterization of Gaza as inhabited by “human animals” during a period of heightened conflict drew sharp criticism from Petro, resulting in Israel ceasing security exports to Colombia.
Petro subsequently intensified his criticism, accusing Israel of committing genocide in the besieged Palestinian enclave. These allegations elicited strong condemnation from Israeli officials and pro-Israel advocacy groups, further straining bilateral relations.
In a significant development, Colombia suspended its purchases of Israeli weapons in February, citing concerns over the use of force against Palestinians in Gaza. Petro drew poignant parallels, invoking the specter of the Holocaust as he denounced Israeli actions as reminiscent of historical atrocities.
Petro’s latest statement comes amidst growing concerns over the prospect of an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, a southern city in the Gaza Strip. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has warned against such escalation, cautioning of severe consequences for civilians caught in the crossfire.
The conflict’s toll is staggering, with over 34,500 Palestinians having lost their lives in Israel’s military offensive to date. The Gaza Strip is grappling with an impending humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by relentless violence and crippling siege measures. Experts are warning of an imminent famine, highlighting the urgency of addressing the plight of the enclave’s inhabitants, according to Al Jazeera.
