Far-left Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of committing “genocide” through Israel’s actions in self-defense against the jihadist organization Hamas. In a social media post, Petro criticized Netanyahu for dropping bombs on innocent children, women, and elderly individuals, likening him to those responsible for killing millions of Jews in Europe. Petro, a former member of the Marxist M19 guerrilla group, orchestrated Colombia’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Israel and called for an international arrest warrant against Netanyahu.
Netanyahu, in response, dismissed Petro as an antisemitic supporter of Hamas and condemned his remarks. The escalating tensions between the two leaders have led to a breakdown in relations between Colombia and Israel. Petro’s ongoing criticisms of Israel have drawn international attention and sparked debates on the legality and justification of Israel’s actions in response to Hamas attacks. Despite Petro’s denials of supporting Hamas, his strong stance against Israel has polarized opinions and deepened divisions on the conflict.
