Netanyahu Congratulates Bolsonaro, Eyes Restored Brazil Ties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro on leading the first round of Brazil's presidential elections, expressing his eagerness to "restore the exceptional friendship" between the two nations ahead of the October 25th runoff. Bolsonaro secured approximately 47% of the vote, narrowly ahead of incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's 45%, a result that defied pre-election polls.

Netanyahu's congratulatory message highlighted a clear preference for Bolsonaro, contrasting the candidates' stances on Israel. Lula has been a vocal critic of Israeli government policies, while Bolsonaro aligns himself with Israel and the conservative movement in Latin America, mirroring the approach of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The election now proceeds to a runoff as neither candidate achieved the required majority. The outcome surprised many, as polls had predicted a lead for Lula. This result follows a trend of gains for the right in Brazil's parliamentary elections and represents a setback for Lula, who is seeking a fourth presidential term.

Flavio Bolsonaro, 45, is the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. He currently serves as a senator and was propelled into the presidential race after his father was sentenced to 27 years in prison for attempting to remain in power after losing the 2022 election to Lula. Flavio garnered nearly 56 million votes, surpassing his father's 2018 and 2022 election results. He expressed optimism about winning the runoff, positioning himself as more moderate than his father, though critics view him as a direct political successor.

The election campaign was marked by intense polarization, scandals, personal attacks, and corruption allegations, overshadowing policy discussions. Both Flavio Bolsonaro and Lula face corruption investigations, though Lula's previous conviction was overturned. Despite these issues, voters' dissatisfaction with available political choices and economic conditions played a significant role.

This election occurs amidst a wave of conservative victories in Latin America, potentially signaling a broader political shift with Brazil, the region's largest economy, moving rightward. Former President Trump, who has maintained a close watch on the elections, has previously imposed tariffs on Brazil. Lula, conversely, has warned Trump against interfering in Brazilian affairs. Lula's campaign emphasizes his past social programs that lifted millions out of poverty and current low unemployment rates, alongside significant reductions in Amazon deforestation. Flavio Bolsonaro's platform focuses on crime reduction and controlling public debt, advocating for close ties with Washington.