In a bold move, Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared on Wednesday that his government would sever diplomatic ties with Israel, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza as the primary reason. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations following the Israel-Hamas war. Petro reiterated his condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza, labeling them as “genocide” and asserting his government’s commitment to stand in solidarity with Palestine.
Petro’s decision to break diplomatic relations with Israel underscores Colombia’s deepening stance against what it perceives as human rights violations in Gaza. Weeks earlier, Petro had suspended weapons purchases from Israel and denounced its military offensive. The move signals a significant shift in Colombia’s foreign policy, which historically maintained warm relations with Israel, including a free trade agreement signed in 2020.
However, Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly condemned Petro’s remarks, characterizing them as siding with “despicable monsters” responsible for atrocities. Katz emphasized Israel’s commitment to defending its citizens and rebuffed any attempts to tarnish the longstanding ties between the two countries.
Colombia’s reliance on Israeli-built military equipment adds complexity to the situation, as the South American nation has utilized such technology in its fight against drug cartels and rebel groups. The Kfir fighter jets purchased from Israel in the late 1980s played a crucial role in Colombia’s operations against guerrilla camps, ultimately contributing to the disarmament of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia in 2016.
Despite the diplomatic rift, Israel remains resolute in its stance, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining warm relations with Colombia while standing firm against perceived anti-Semitic rhetoric. The situation underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic principles and geopolitical interests in navigating international conflicts. As tensions persist, the implications of Petro’s decision on Colombia’s foreign relations and regional stability remain uncertain.
