Israel Summons Brazilian Ambassador Over President’s Comments
(CNN) — Israel has announced that it will summon the Brazilian ambassador following remarks made by the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, regarding the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
In a speech given at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa on Sunday, Lula described the situation in Gaza as “genocide,” likening it to the actions of Hitler against the Jews.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by stating that Lula’s comments “cross a red line.” He emphasized that Israel is fighting for its defense and to ensure its future, while respecting international law. Israel has stated its goal is to completely eliminate Hamas after they attacked Israel on October 7.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also criticized Lula’s statements, with Gallant accusing him of “crossing red lines” and shaming his people while violating the values of the free world.
In addition to his comments on the Gaza conflict, Lula also addressed the death of Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny, calling for a proper investigation into the cause of his death. While many Western nations immediately condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, Lula refrained from making accusations and expressed hope for a coroner to provide an explanation for Navalny’s death.
The comments by the Brazilian President have sparked a diplomatic spat between Israel and Brazil, prompting Israel to summon the Brazilian ambassador to address the situation.