Bolivia has severed diplomatic relations with Israel due to what it characterizes as Israel’s “aggressive and disproportionate” military actions in Gaza.
Deputy Foreign Minister Freddy Mamani announced this decision, which includes Bolivia’s call for a ceasefire in Gaza and the provision of aid to the blockaded Gaza Strip.
This makes Bolivia the first Latin American country to cut ties with Israel over the conflict.
Additionally, Presidents of Colombia and Brazil, while critical of Israel’s actions, had varying responses.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially called for Israel’s ambassador to leave the country but later stepped back those comments.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva urged a ceasefire, expressing concern about the high number of child casualties.
The majority of the reported the 8,500 war casualties in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health ministry, are adults, but this figure includes a significant number of children.
Israel’s military actions in Gaza were prompted by a Hamas attack in October that resulted in casualties and hostages.
Bolivia’s decision to cut ties with Israel is a response to what it views as Israel’s excessive military offensive and its call for an end to the Gaza blockade preventing essential supplies from entering the region.
While the U.S. reported delivering aid to Gaza, charities warn that it may not be sufficient, with a significant decrease in aid deliveries compared to before the conflict.
Prior to the war, about 500 trucks would enter Gaza each day according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) commissioner-general, Philippe Lazzarini.
Source-BBC
