Colombian President States His Country Would Arrest Netanyahu and Gallant, Affirms “Palestinians Are Semitic”
"What’s happening in Palestine and the region is a message of intimidation from the Global North to the Global South," Petro said.
Bogotá (Quds News Network)- Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced that his country would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant if they enter Colombia, citing compliance with International Criminal Court (ICC) decision.
In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, Petro criticized the United States for rejecting the ICC’s authority, labeling its stance as “supportive of atrocities.” He stated that powerful nations are undermining international law and escalating global tensions to preserve their dominance.
Petro stressed that Israel is carrying out a genocidal war in Gaza intended to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. “What’s happening in Palestine and the region is not just a war—it’s a message of intimidation from the Global North to the Global South,” he asserted.
Drawing on Colombia’s history, Petro expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, saying, “We Colombians, having experienced brutality and killings, deeply understand the genocide the Palestinian people are enduring.” He added that Colombians are deeply moved by the devastating images from Gaza, which revive painful memories of their own past struggles.
Rejecting Western Pressure and Antisemitism Allegations
Petro said that Western nations betray allies, likening the situation to the perceived abandonment of Ukraine. He acknowledged facing international pressure for Colombia’s stance on Gaza, particularly from financial lobbies.
Addressing accusations of antisemitism following Colombia’s severance of ties with Israel, Petro clarified, “Palestinians and Arabs are Semitic people.”
Since the outbreak of the Gaza war, Petro has implemented significant measures to oppose Israeli actions:
Coal Export Ban: In August, Petro signed a decree banning coal exports to Israel, stating on social media, “Colombian coal is used to make bombs that kill Palestinian children.”
Suspension of Arms Deals: After a February massacre in Gaza that killed 118 Palestinians, Petro suspended arms purchases from Israel.
Diplomatic Break: In May, Petro announced the termination of Colombia’s diplomatic relations with Israel, calling on other nations to take a stand against the genocide. At a Labor Day rally, he declared, “Tomorrow, we will sever ties with Israel because its government and prime minister are committing genocide.”
Petro has consistently called for international intervention to hold Israel accountable, urging global leaders to uphold justice and protect Palestinian rights. He criticized the United States for its unwavering support of Israel and its dismissal of ICC rulings.
