Latin American Responses to Israel-Hamas Conflict: Diverse Opinions Across the Region
Latin American countries responded with diverse stances as the Israel-Hamas conflict unfolded, reflecting the region's complex relationships with both parties. Latin American leaders voiced their positions on the ongoing conflict, from strong support for Israel in some nations to calls for peace and condemnations of violence.
Photo: 09/26/2023. Palestinians search for victims and survivors in the rubble of a residential building leveled in an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip. EFE/EPA/HAITHAM IMAD
The Latin American Post Staff
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Leer en español: Respuestas latinoamericanas al conflicto entre Israel y Hamas: opiniones diversas en toda la región
In recent weeks, the Israel-Hamas conflict has stirred reactions across Latin America, revealing a complex landscape of opinions and stances among the region's countries. Historically, Latin American countries have shown diverse responses, with left-leaning governments supporting the Palestinian cause and right-leaning nations aligning with the United States' stance on Israel-Palestine relations. However, the recent loss of Latin American lives during the conflict has led to re-evaluating their positions.
Argentina: Condemnation with a Call for Peace
Argentina, home to a significant Jewish community, condemned the Hamas attacks on Israeli citizens. President Alberto Fernandez expressed solidarity with Israel and stressed the urgency of peace while emphasizing the need to eliminate violence worldwide.
Belize: Calls for De-escalation and Palestinian State
Belize called for immediate de-escalation and supported a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The country also demanded the right of return for Palestinians displaced from their ancestral homeland.
Bolivia: Mixed Responses
While Bolivia officially expressed concern about the violence on both sides, former President Evo Morales voiced a more assertive stance, condemning the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
Brazil: Support for Civilians and a Two-State Solution
Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for ending violence on both sides, advocating for a two-state solution in which Israel and Palestine can coexist safely within their borders.
Chile: Strong Stance for Palestinian Rights
Chile, home to a significant Palestinian diaspora, condemned the violence and supported Palestinian rights. President Gabriel Boric condemned Hamas's attacks on October 7 while criticizing Israel's indiscriminate attacks on civilians.
Colombia's Clashes with Israel
The conflict escalated when Colombia's President, Gustavo Petro, compared Israeli attacks on Gaza to Nazi persecution during World War II. Israel responded by halting security exports to Colombia, and Petro even threatened to suspend diplomatic relations. The historical ties between Israel and Colombia, particularly concerning the supply of fighter jets, surveillance equipment, and assault rifles, have been a central focus.
El Salvador: Ally of Israel
El Salvador, a staunch ally of Israel, condemned the Hamas attack on Israel. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, of Palestinian ancestry, emphasized the need for Hamas to "completely disappear" for the sake of the Palestinian people.
Mexico: Neutrality and Divided Opinions
Mexico's President Andrés Manuel López Obrador maintained neutrality, emphasizing the need for peaceful solutions rather than condemnations. However, the Secretariat of Foreign Relations condemned Hamas' attack and affirmed Israel's right to self-defense. Opinions within Mexico remain divided, with one presidential aspirant supporting Israel and the other urging recognition of both states.
Also read: Analysis: A Look At The Palestinian-Israeli Conflict From Latin America
Venezuela: Calls for Dialogue and UN Role
The Venezuelan government expressed concern over the situation in the Gaza Strip and called for an end to violence through direct dialogue and UN Security Council Resolution 2334. Venezuela recognized the conflict due to the Palestinian people's inability to assert their historical rights in international law.
Other Latin American Nations: Condemnation and Support
Most Latin American governments condemned Hamas's attacks and expressed support for Israel. These nations include Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. In contrast, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela justified Hamas' attacks, and former Bolivian President Evo Morales blamed Israel.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has underscored the diversity of opinions and stances within Latin America, highlighting the complexity of this region's responses to global conflicts. As the situation evolves, Latin American nations will continue to navigate their positions, reflecting their unique perspectives and diplomatic interests.
