Colombia Expels Israeli Diplomats After Gaza Flotilla Interception

Bogotá, Colombia — October 2, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the expulsion of all remaining Israeli diplomats from the country following Israel’s interception of a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla and the reported detention of two Colombian activists on board.

The move, announced on Wednesday, marks a dramatic escalation in Colombia’s already strained ties with Israel and underscores Petro’s outspoken support for Palestine in the ongoing conflict.

Colombian Activists Detained at Sea

According to a statement from the Colombian presidency, two Colombian women, identified as Manuela Bedoya and Luna Barreto, were detained by Israeli forces in international waters. Both women were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led effort to deliver aid to the blockaded Gaza Strip.

President Petro described them as “engaged in human solidarity activities with Palestine” and called for their immediate release.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the interception of the flotilla, saying that “several vessels” had been stopped and redirected to an Israeli port. Officials stated that passengers were being questioned but emphasized that the operation was carried out “safely and without casualties.”

Petro Cuts Ties and Expels Diplomats

Although Colombia formally severed diplomatic relations with Israel in 2024, four Israeli diplomats remained stationed in Bogotá. A source at the Israeli consulate confirmed to AFP that these officials have now been ordered to leave.

On his official X account (formerly Twitter), Petro declared the expulsion of “the entire diplomatic delegation of Israel,” condemning what he called “a new international crime” committed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

In addition to the expulsions, Petro also announced the termination of the Colombia-Israel free trade agreement, which had been in effect since 2020.

Strong Criticism of Netanyahu and the U.S.

President Petro, a leftist leader known for his fiery rhetoric, has been one of Netanyahu’s harshest critics in Latin America. He has previously labeled the Israeli prime minister “genocidal” and accused the United States of complicity in what he describes as crimes against the Palestinian people.

Last week, Petro joined a pro-Palestinian rally in New York, where he urged U.S. soldiers to “disobey” former President Donald Trump, whom he accused of supporting Israeli actions. Following those remarks, Washington revoked Petro’s U.S. visa, further straining relations with the Biden administration.

International and Domestic Reactions

Petro’s decision has drawn mixed responses both at home and abroad. Supporters praise the Colombian leader for taking a principled stand in defense of Palestinian rights. “This is a bold act of justice and solidarity with the oppressed,” one supporter commented on Colombian media outlets.

However, critics argue that the move risks isolating Colombia diplomatically and undermining trade relations. Some international observers warn that expelling Israeli diplomats and cutting trade ties could have economic repercussions for the South American nation, especially in sectors such as technology and defense.

Broader Context

The expulsion comes against the backdrop of heightened global tensions over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Humanitarian groups have long accused Israel of violating international law with its blockade of the territory, while Israel insists its measures are necessary to prevent weapons from reaching Hamas.

Petro’s actions align him with several other Latin American leaders who have taken strong stances in support of Palestine. In recent years, countries like Bolivia, Chile, and Brazil have also criticized Israel’s military campaigns and called for stronger international accountability.

Outlook

With diplomatic relations now at their lowest point in decades, experts predict a prolonged freeze between Bogotá and Tel Aviv. Analysts say Petro’s decision reflects both his ideological worldview and his desire to position Colombia as a vocal advocate for human rights on the global stage.

Whether this bold stance strengthens Colombia’s international reputation or leaves it increasingly isolated remains to be seen. But for now, Petro has made clear that his administration views solidarity with Palestine as non-negotiable — even at the cost of relations with key international allies.