Colombia breaks ties with Israel over “genocidal” Netanyahu
Colombia has announced it will break diplomatic ties with Israel, with President Petro accusing Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu of being a “genocidal leader”, according to Middle East Online and agencies on May 2.
Petro had already slammed Israel over its actions in Gaza, requesting to join South Africa’s case accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice.
“Here in front of you, the government of change, of 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,” said Petro to massive crowds in Bogota, gathered to back the president’s social and economic reforms.
READ: Turkey to join South Africa genocide case against Israel
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz responded, saying Petro was “antisemitic and full of hate”.
Colombia’s break follows several other Latin American countries increasingly frosty relations with Israel. Bolivia severed ties at the end of October 2023, while Chile and Honduras recalled their ambassadors.
Middle East Online / Agencies
