Colombia to Sever Diplomatic Ties with Israel Over Gaza Conflict

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced on May 1 that his government would break diplomatic relations with Israel, citing the situation in Gaza as genocide. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between the two countries over the Israel-Hamas conflict. President Petro described Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocidal, previously suspending weapons purchases from Israel and likening its actions to those of Nazi Germany.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz condemned Petro’s remarks, calling them support for “despicable monsters.” Historically close partners, Colombia and Israel have seen cooling relations since Petro’s election in 2022, despite deep military ties, including the use of Israeli-built warplanes and machine guns to combat drug cartels and rebel groups in Colombia.