Expulsion of the Israeli Diplomatic Mission from Colombia Following the Interception of the Resilience Fleet

SadaNews - Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced that he ordered the expulsion of all remaining members of the Israeli diplomatic mission in the country following what he described as an "international crime" committed by Israeli forces when they intercepted the Resilience Fleet carrying humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Before this decision, only four Israeli diplomats remained in Colombia after President Petro severed diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv last year, according to a Colombian source speaking to Agence France-Presse.

Petro, who has been in power since 2022, stated that Israel detained two Colombian women who were among the activists on the Resilience Fleet while they were sailing in "international waters," demanding their "immediate release".

In 2024, Colombia cut its diplomatic ties with Israel in protest against the war in the Gaza Strip; however, Tel Aviv maintained a consular representation in the South American country with 40 staff members, including 4 Israelis who hold diplomatic status, according to the same Colombian source.

Petro emphasized in a statement his rejection of "any act that affects the physical safety of Colombian citizens abroad or their freedom or human rights". He also announced that he decided to immediately cancel the free trade agreement with Israel.

The Israeli Navy intercepted "several ships" from the Resilience Fleet on Wednesday, which was approaching the Gaza Strip, including a ship carrying Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, after Israel instructed the participating ships to change their course.

The "Global Resilience Fleet," which set out in early September from Spain, Tunisia, and Italy, consists of around 45 ships carrying hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists from more than 50 countries. It is carrying baby formula, food, and medical aid for the people of the Gaza Strip, asserting it is on a "peaceful and non-violent mission".

Source: Agence France-Presse