Colombian President Calls for Trump to Face Consequences Over Gaza Remarks

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has urged President Donald Trump to withdraw support for Gaza, suggesting that he should face imprisonment for his alleged backing of what Petro describes as “genocide.” This bold call came shortly after Petro’s US visa was canceled following a visit to New York.

During a recent gathering, Petro accused US troops of being complicit if they continue to follow Trump amid what he deems a violation of human rights. He also announced plans to unilaterally end Colombia’s Free Trade Agreement with Israel and reevaluate trade terms with the United States.

“If Trump continues to participate in genocide, then he deserves prison, and his army should not support him,” Petro stated at the conference.

This controversy escalated after US authorities arrested Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while he was en route to New York, claiming he failed to recognize international law. Petro emphasized that Netanyahu should have been apprehended under the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.

He argued that international law allows for the arrest of anyone accused, including Netanyahu, in any country. Petro expressed frustration that such legal protocols were disregarded, implicating Trump in this oversight.

Petro’s remarks were part of a passionate 40-minute speech at the UN General Assembly, where he heavily criticized Trump for being an enabler of what he characterized as Israel’s actions in Gaza. He urged the UN to form a multinational force to support Palestine.

As Colombia’s first left-wing president, Petro has a history with the Marxist M19 group and has previously mentioned its links to pro-Palestinian factions. He also participated in various anti-Israel demonstrations during his time in New York, making his position abundantly clear.

Following his inflammatory speech, the U.S. State Department decided to revoke Petro’s visa in response to what they deemed reckless behavior. In the wake of this, Petro took to social media to voice his distress, capturing the attention of both allies and critics alike.

In a statement, Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the visa revocation as a breach of Petro’s right to free speech, characterizing it as a “diplomatic weapon.” Petro reiterated this claim, emphasizing that international law should protect individuals who speak out on global platforms.

In addition to withdrawing from the trade agreement with Israel, Petro stated that Colombia would reassess its free trade deal with the U.S., reaffirming that they would not be exploited through these agreements.

“We’re not a company willing to be taken advantage of, so we’ll reform our relationships,” Petro asserted.

Its impact extended to Petro’s administration, with several members voluntarily relinquishing their US visas in a show of solidarity. Colombia’s Foreign Minister Rosa Villalichencio explained her decision as an act of dignity, asserting it was a response to perceived retaliation against their stance on Gaza.

Home Minister Armando Benedetti echoed these sentiments, urging his colleagues to follow suit in solidarity with the president.