What it is about:

Brazil has recalled its ambassador to Israel, Frederico Meyer, and will delay appointing a new one, according to a diplomatic source. The move is a further escalation of tensions between the two nations over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Why it matters:

This development marks a significant deterioration in Brazil-Israel relations, particularly following controversial remarks by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva comparing Israel’s actions to “genocide.” Israel’s firm stance in response to such accusations underscores its defense of actions taken against Hamas, which has positioned the nation under intense scrutiny and global debate.

Driving the news:

Frederico Meyer has been absent from Israel since February when he was recalled for consultations. Despite Brazil’s lack of official notice, Israel’s Foreign Ministry has scheduled talks with Brazil’s deputy ambassador to address the situation.

Context:

Tensions mounted after Lula da Silva equated Israel’s actions in Gaza to atrocities committed by Hitler during World War II, leading to a strong repudiation by Israel. Declarative rhetoric from Brazil has emboldened other Latin American leaders, like Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro, adding diplomatic pressure by backing complaints against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

The Israeli Perspective:

Israel maintains its actions in Gaza are defensive measures responding to grave threats from Hamas, particularly following their October 7 assault on southern Israel which resulted in the death and capture of numerous civilians. Israel views these operations as necessary to dismantle terrorist networks responsible for orchestrating attacks.

By the Numbers:

According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, fatalities in Gaza reportedly stand at over 36,000. However, Israel asserts that these numbers include significant counts of terrorists neutralized during multiple military engagements. Verifying these statistics independently remains complex due to the nature of the conflict.

The Bottom Line:

The recall of Brazil’s ambassador and delay in appointment of his successor symbolize strained diplomatic relations. For Israel, the unwavering position in defending its sovereign actions against Hamas’s terrorism serves as a crucial stance to navigate global criticisms and assertions of disproportional responses.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.