In response to what it termed “aggressive and disproportionate” military actions by Israel in Gaza, Bolivia has severed its diplomatic ties with the country. Bolivia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Freddy Mamani, announced that the nation demands a ceasefire and plans to provide aid to the besieged Gaza Strip.
Bolivia stands as the first Latin American nation to break ties with Israel due to the current conflict.
Other Latin American leaders, including the presidents of Colombia and Brazil, have voiced their disapproval of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially requested the departure of the Israeli ambassador, but later retracted his statement. Brazil’s President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, reacted vehemently after hearing about another Israeli air strike in Gaza, highlighting the alarming number of child casualties and fervently calling for a halt in hostilities.
The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports 8,500 casualties from the war, of which 3,500 are children. Israel’s offensive in Gaza began following the Hamas attack on 7 October, which resulted in 1,400 deaths and the capture of 239 hostages.
In a statement, Mamani condemned the “disproportionate Israeli military offensive” in Gaza and reiterated Bolivia’s demand for a ceasefire. He emphasized the urgency to end Israel’s blockade, which he believes impedes the supply of essential life necessities like food and water.
The US confirmed the delivery of aid through 66 trucks into Gaza on Tuesday. However, charity organizations argue that the aid is insufficient. UNRWA commissioner-general, Philippe Lazzarini, pointed out that prior to the war, approximately 500 trucks would enter Gaza daily.
In recent history, Bolivia resumed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2019 after previously severing them in 2009 during President Evo Morales’ tenure, in protest against Israel’s operations in Gaza.
Recently, Bolivia’s President Luis Arce labeled Israel’s actions in Gaza as “war crimes” following a discussion with the Palestinian ambassador to Bolivia, Mahmoud Elalwani.
