Latin America Emerges as Israel's Diplomatic Haven Amid Shifting Alliances
A significant shift in diplomatic allegiances is occurring in Latin America, with several right-wing and populist leaders increasingly aligning with Israel, often disregarding international law and human rights concerns. This trend is exemplified by Colombia's new government, which, shortly after its inauguration, recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. This move, occurring amidst a major earthquake in Colombia, also included promises to restore full diplomatic ties, move its embassy to Jerusalem, and withdraw from South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
This diplomatic realignment contrasts sharply with the previous stance of many Latin American nations, which had been critical of Israel's actions in Gaza, recalled ambassadors, and joined international complaints. The rise of right-wing leaders in countries like Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Ecuador has led to a "give and take" political approach, favoring closer cooperation with Israel in exchange for enhanced military and security collaboration, and potentially stronger ties with Washington.
Leaders such as Argentina's Javier Milei and Colombia's Gustavo Petro have publicly supported figures like Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu. Several nations, including Paraguay, Honduras, and Guatemala, have already moved their embassies to Jerusalem, with Argentina and Colombia announcing similar intentions, defying international consensus. This shift is crucial for Israel, which has struggled to win the international public opinion battle, particularly in Europe and North America, where support has waned.
Israel's strategy appears to involve seeking allies within the far-right and evangelical Christian communities in Latin America. This approach aims to secure diplomatic normalization independent of adherence to international law, mirroring the Abraham Accords model. However, this strategy is criticized for overlooking human rights and international law violations, and for potentially undermining the international system that Latin American nations rely on for their own sovereignty.
The article also notes the emergence of "Isaac Accords," a framework for cooperation between Israel and Latin American countries based on shared "Judeo-Christian values," which further detaches diplomatic ties from international legal obligations. While some leaders may see closer ties with Israel as a leverage point with Washington, the article cautions that this could lead to increased subservience to a major power, citing instances where countries like Chile faced U.S. pressure despite aligning with American interests.
Furthermore, the article contrasts Israel's growing influence with the apparent lack of a comprehensive strategy from the Palestinian Authority in Latin America. It suggests that Palestinian communities and civil society organizations can counter attempts to normalize Israeli actions, but a coordinated diplomatic approach with Arab and Muslim nations is needed. The article concludes by questioning whether short-term gains from aligning with Israel outweigh the long-term national interest in upholding international law, especially in light of upcoming elections in Israel and the U.S. that could reshape political coalitions.
