Colombia Severs Diplomatic Ties with Israel Over Gaza Conflict

President Gustavo Petro cites 'genocidal' actions by Israel in Gaza as the reason for the diplomatic break, effective Thursday.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the severance of diplomatic ties with Israel, attributing the decision to Israel's 'genocidal' actions in Gaza.
The decision follows a history of military and trade relations between Colombia and Israel, including significant Israeli arms sales to Colombia.
Colombia's military, which relies heavily on Israeli equipment, faces potential challenges due to the severed ties.
The move aligns Colombia with other Latin American countries like Bolivia and Belize, which have also cut ties with Israel over its actions in Gaza.
Israeli officials have condemned Petro's decision, labeling it as support for Hamas and anti-Semitic.