Netanyahu Congratulates Bolsonaro on Election Results, Hopes to Restore Israel-Brazil Ties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated Brazilian presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro on his performance in the first round of Brazil's presidential elections. The first round results showed that incumbent President Lula da Silva will face right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro in a runoff election scheduled for October 25. Netanyahu, who wrote his message in English, wished Bolsonaro success in the final round and expressed his anticipation of restoring the "wonderful friendship" between Israel and Brazil. He also stated, "I wish you a great victory, my friend."

The first round of elections in Brazil concluded without any candidate securing over 50% of the vote, necessitating a second round. With 99% of ballots counted, Flavio Bolsonaro led with 47.45%, while the incumbent left-wing President Lula da Silva followed with 44.66%.

The election outcome carries significance for Israel's relations with Brazil. During his tenure, Lula da Silva, 81, became a sharp critic of Israeli policy, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza and leading to a deterioration in bilateral relations. Brazil did not approve a new Israeli ambassador, and Israel declared Lula an undesirable figure.

In contrast, Flavio Bolsonaro, 45, the elder son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, has adopted a more pro-Israel and pro-United States stance. He cultivated ties with Netanyahu and former US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu appeared in a campaign video for Bolsonaro in July, and Bolsonaro met with Trump at the White House in May to discuss organized crime, trade, and essential minerals.