‘What is happening in Gaza is a genocide’: Brazil’s President Lula da Silva reinforces criticism of Israel in South America

June 9, 2025

Brazilian President Lula da Silva has reaffirmed his characterization of Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide," rejecting accusations of antisemitism from the Israeli Embassy. His criticism aligns with Chilean President Gabriel Boric's stance, while contrasting sharply with Argentina's pro-Israel President Javier Milei and Paraguay's supportive position. The article outlines how Southern Cone countries have taken divergent diplomatic positions on the Israel-Gaza conflict, with Brazil and Chile openly condemning Israel's military actions, Uruguay maintaining a more measured criticism, and Argentina and Paraguay demonstrating strong support for Israel.

Who is affected

Palestinian civilians in Gaza, particularly women and children
Jewish and Palestinian communities in Latin American countries
Citizens of Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay affected by their governments' foreign policy positions
The Israeli government and diplomatic representatives in Latin America
Opposition political parties in various countries challenging their governments' positions

What action is being taken

Brazil's President Lula is publicly criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide" and has issued an official statement condemning new Israeli settlements in the West Bank
Chile's President Boric is pushing legislation to ban imports from Israeli-occupied territories and seeking to reduce dependence on Israeli industry
Uruguay's Defense Minister is engaging in diplomacy with Israel while expressing concerns about the "asymmetrical conflict"
Argentina's President Milei has officially declared Hamas a "terrorist organization" and maintains strong support for Israel
Paraguay has reopened its embassy in Jerusalem, recognizing it as Israel's capital

Why it matters

The divergent positions on the Israel-Gaza conflict are creating political polarization within the Southern Cone region
These diplomatic stances impact regional alliances and international relations
The positions affect trade relationships and potential sanctions against Israel
The governments' positions influence public opinion and domestic politics in each country
The statements and actions by these leaders affect humanitarian aid efforts for Gaza

What's next

Uruguay's President Orsi plans to send humanitarian aid including powder, milk, and rice to Gaza
Chile's President Boric is advancing legislation to ban imports from Israeli-occupied territories
Brazil continues to advocate for a two-state solution with borders established up to 1967
No explicit next steps stated in the article for Argentina and Paraguay

Read full article from source: Global Voices