In a significant diplomatic development, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has declared the country’s intention to sever diplomatic relations with Israel. This decision is in response to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, which has raised concerns among human rights organizations and experts about potential acts of genocide. Addressing a gathering in Bogota on International Workers’ Day, President Petro emphasized the need for nations to take a stand against the crisis in Gaza.
President Petro, who rose to power as part of the progressive “pink tide” movement in Latin America, has been a prominent critic of Israel’s actions since the conflict began. His stance became particularly evident when, shortly after the outbreak of hostilities, he compared comments made by Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to those of the Nazis, leading to Israel halting security exports to Colombia.
The Colombian leader’s accusations of genocide against Israel have been met with disapproval from Israeli officials and advocacy groups. In response to the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza, Colombia had previously suspended arms purchases from Israel, with President Petro likening the situation to the Holocaust.
The recent remarks by President Petro come against the backdrop of escalating tensions and the possibility of an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, which UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned could lead to an intolerable escalation of the conflict. The Gaza Strip has witnessed significant loss of life and a deepening humanitarian crisis, with warnings of an impending famine.
While the Israeli government has not yet responded to Colombia’s announcement, Colombia has taken steps to join the legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where Israel is accused of genocide. Colombia’s participation aims to advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations in Gaza, including women, children, the disabled, and the elderly.
The ICJ had previously acknowledged the potential risk of genocide in Gaza and instructed Israel to take measures to prevent such acts. Additionally, UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese indicated that there were credible reasons to believe that acts of genocide could be occurring in the region.
