Brazil has taken a bold step by withdrawing its ambassador to Israel amid ongoing tensions over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. This decision follows months of discord between the two nations, with Brazil’s President Luiz InĂ¡cio Lula da Silva openly criticizing Israel’s offensive in Gaza, likening it to the Holocaust earlier this year.
The move to recall the ambassador was made in response to what Brazil deems as the humiliation of their diplomat by Israel’s top official. While the Brazilian Embassy in Israel remains operational, there is currently no ambassador in place. Former ambassador Frederico Meyer has been relocated to Geneva.
Brazil’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict aligns with its support for a two-state solution. This is further emphasized by the country’s recognition of a Palestinian state in 2010 and its endorsement of recent moves by Ireland, Norway, and Spain to formalize the recognition. Meanwhile, Israel continues to justify its offensive in Gaza as a defensive measure against Hamas.
Brazil’s actions signal a commitment to diplomatic critique and mediation in the Middle East, despite facing backlash from pro-Israel groups within the country. The withdrawal of the ambassador serves as a powerful statement of solidarity with Palestine and a call for peaceful resolution in the region.