Colombia to Cut Diplomatic Relations with Israel Due to Gaza Actions
Colombian President Gustavo Petro fiercely criticized the Israeli government's handling of the conflict in Gaza at a rally in Bogotá's Bolívar Square on Wednesday, describing it as "genocidal." He spoke out following a series of attacks by the Palestinian terror group Hamas that killed over 1,200 people on October 7 and led to more than 250 hostage-takings, many of whom are still being held.
The conflict in Gaza, which began nearly eight months ago, has claimed the lives of over 34,000 individuals, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
Israel's foreign minister, Israel Katz, responded by condemning Colombia's statement and accusing Petro of sympathizing with Hamas, which governs Gaza. He labelled Petro a "hate-filled, antisemitic president" but assured that diplomatic relations between the two countries would continue to be cordial despite his actions.
Hamas praised Petro's position, describing his decision as a "victory for the sacrifices of our people and their just cause" and urged other nations to adopt similar stances.
In a previous instance, South Africa accused Israel of violating international genocide laws, stating that its leaders were intent on destroying the Palestinians in Gaza. This allegation was dismissed by Israel as an "absurd blood libel."
The International Court of Justice ordered Israel to "take all measures" to prevent genocide in a case concerning the alleged genocide but refrained from ordering the government to end the war.
Bolivia severed diplomatic ties with Israel last year, citing "crimes against humanity committed against the Palestinian people" in connection with Israel's war with Hamas.
This story is still unfolding, stay tuned for more updates.
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The world is closely watching Colombia's decision to criticize Israel's actions in Gaza, as concerns over human rights escalate globally. Despite Israel's foreign minister's accusations, the future of diplomatic relations between Colombia and Israel remains uncertain due to the world's growing emphasis on addressing genocidal conflicts.
Source: edition.cnn.com
