In a notable diplomatic move, Nicaragua officially severed ties with Israel on 12 October 2024, amid escalating military actions in Gaza. On behalf of the Nicaraguan government, Vice President Rosario Murillo condemned Israel’s military operations in Gaza, calling them ‘genocidal’ and a display of ‘fascism.’
She emphasised that Nicaragua could no longer maintain relations with Israel while such actions persisted. This marks a continuation of Nicaragua’s strong stance in favour of Palestinian rights and its condemnation of Israeli policies in the occupied territories.
A History of Solidarity with Palestine
Nicaragua’s decision to cut ties with Israel is not unprecedented. In 1988, Nicaragua was one of the first countries to officially recognise Palestine as a sovereign state. Nicaragua has regularly backed Palestine in international forums, particularly the UN, urging an end to Israeli occupation and supporting Palestinian self-determination.
The recent diplomatic break highlights Nicaragua’s enduring commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights on the global stage. At South Africa’s ICJ case against Israel for committing genocide in Gaza, Nicaragua has been consistently supporting Palestine.
Latin America’s Growing Opposition to Israel’s Actions
Nicaragua is not alone in its condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Several Latin American countries, including Bolivia and Colombia, have also criticised Israel’s military campaign.
Colombia’s President, Gustavo Petro, has openly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. He labeled the situation as genocide, asserting that Israel aims to remove the Palestinian people from the region. What followed this was a series of violent events, including the assassination of 100 Palestinians in search of food. In response to these developments, Colombia has halted all weapon purchases from Israel.
Latin American countries Bolivia and Belize severed official ties with Israel in November 2023, while Venezuela had previously done so in 2009. Chilean President Gabriel Boric criticized Israel for “unacceptable violations of International Humanitarian Law” and recalled its ambassador from Tel Aviv. This action inspired similar moves from Honduras and Nicaragua.
Nicaragua’s diplomatic decision thus underscores a growing regional trend of opposing Israeli policies and showing solidarity with Palestine across Latin America.
Impact and Symbolism
Though Nicaragua’s economic and diplomatic ties with Israel have been minimal, the decision carries significant symbolic weight. Nicaragua has no resident ambassador in Israel, and trade relations between the two countries remain limited.
Nevertheless, the diplomatic break reinforces Nicaragua’s position as a staunch supporter of Palestine. By leading this diplomatic effort, Nicaragua hopes to inspire other countries to take action and challenge Israel’s policies in the occupied territories.
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