Colombia Cuts Ties with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
Colombian President Gustavo Petro made headlines recently when he announced that the government will be breaking diplomatic relations with Israel. This decision comes as tensions continue to escalate in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
Petro has been vocal in his criticism of Israel, describing their siege of Gaza as genocide. He previously suspended purchases of weapons from Israel, a move that has not gone unnoticed by Israeli officials. Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Petro’s decision, accusing him of supporting “despicable monsters.”
This move is especially significant as Colombia has historically had warm relations with Israel. In fact, both countries signed a free trade agreement in 2020. However, Petro’s decision to break diplomatic ties with Israel aligns with his leftist policies.
It is worth noting that Colombia has a history of using Israeli-built warplanes and machine guns to fight drug cartels and rebel groups. In the late 1980s, Israel provided military assistance to Colombia, including Kfir fighter jets that were used in attacks on guerrilla camps.
Petro has also made headlines for his participation in an International Workers’ Day march in Bogota, where he advocated for health care, pension, and labor reforms. His decisions regarding Israel and his leftist policies continue to shape Colombia’s foreign relations and domestic politics. Stay tuned to Bio Prep Watch for updates on this developing story.
