Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has withdrawn the country’s ambassador to Israel following months of tensions between the two countries over Israel’s assault on Gaza. The move was announced in Brazil’s official gazette, but there was no immediate response from Israel. Lula has been a vocal critic of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, comparing it to the Holocaust earlier in the year. Ambassador Frederico Meyer has been transferred to Geneva to join Brazil’s permanent mission to the United Nations and other international organisations.
Lula, a prominent figure in the Global South, has faced backlash from the far right in Brazil over his Holocaust comments. Despite this, he has received support from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who has also severed ties with Israel. Both Brazil and Colombia have supported South Africa’s complaint against Israel at the International Court of Justice, alleging that the Gaza assault violates the Genocide Convention. The Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in over 36,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 81,000 injuries, while the death toll in Israel from Hamas attacks is at least 1,139.
As the conflict in Gaza continues, Israel has faced increased global criticism, particularly as the focus turns to the city of Rafah, the last area in Gaza to see a ground offensive. Israel has also imposed severe restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid, further exacerbating the crisis. Prior to the offensive in Rafah, the United Nations had warned that up to 1.4 million people were sheltering in the city, with one million people fleeing since the start of the attacks. The UNRWA has been actively involved in providing assistance to those affected by the conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has reignited international calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state. Norway, Spain, and Ireland have formally recognised the State of Palestine, breaking away from the traditional position of Western powers that a Palestinian state can only be declared through negotiations with Israel. The move underscores the global solidarity with the Palestinian cause and the desire to see a resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recognition of Palestine as a state is seen as a step towards achieving peace and justice in the region.
Lula’s decision to withdraw the Brazilian ambassador to Israel underscores the growing international pressure on Israel to end its assault on Gaza and address the humanitarian crisis in the region. The move comes at a time when global support for the Palestinian cause is increasing, with more countries recognising Palestine as a state and condemning Israel’s actions. It also highlights the role of Latin American leaders in standing up for justice and human rights, despite facing opposition at home. As the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the international community must work together to find a peaceful resolution and support the Palestinian people in their quest for self-determination and statehood.
