Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced on Wednesday that his government will sever diplomatic ties with Israel, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Petro condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide' and stated that diplomatic relations will be terminated effective Thursday.
This decision comes after Petro previously suspended weapon purchases from Israel and likened Israel's actions to those of Nazi Germany. The escalating tensions between the two countries have led to this significant diplomatic rift.
Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly responded to Petro's remarks, criticizing the Colombian president for siding with what he described as 'despicable monsters.' Katz emphasized Israel's commitment to defending its citizens and denounced Petro's stance on the conflict.
Historically, Colombia has been a close partner of Israel in Latin America, with both countries engaging in military cooperation and signing a free trade agreement in 2020. However, relations have cooled since Petro, a leftist president, assumed office in 2022.
Colombia has utilized Israeli-built warplanes and weaponry in its fight against drug cartels and rebel groups, deepening military ties with Israel since the late 1980s. The purchase of Kfir fighter jets from Israel played a crucial role in Colombia's military operations against guerrilla camps, ultimately leading to peace talks with rebel forces.
Petro's participation in a recent march in Bogota to advocate for health care, pension, and labor reforms underscores his domestic policy agenda amid the diplomatic fallout with Israel.
