Israel has downgraded its diplomatic ties with Brazil after the South American nation refused to accept a new ambassador nominee. This move deepens a crisis sparked by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s strong criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, leading Tel Aviv to label him persona non grata on August 25, 2025.
Roots of the Diplomatic Rift
The tension between Brazil and Israel has been building since late 2023. It started when Lula da Silva compared Israel’s military campaign in Gaza to Nazi Germany’s actions during World War Two. He called the Gaza situation a genocide, not a fair war, but an attack on civilians, especially women and children.
Israel responded harshly back then. Officials summoned Brazil’s ambassador to a Holocaust memorial site for a public rebuke. They demanded an apology from Lula, which never came. This set the stage for ongoing friction.
In February 2024, Israel first declared Lula persona non grata. That status means he is unwelcome in Israel unless he retracts his words. Brazil pulled its ambassador from Tel Aviv in protest, leaving the post empty for over a year.
Recent events have made things worse. Brazil joined South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice in July 2025. The case accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza. Brazil has long supported Palestine, recognizing it as a state in 2010.
Latest Escalation Over Ambassador Nomination
On August 25, 2025, Israel nominated Gali Dagan as its new ambassador to Brazil. Dagan had served in Colombia before. Brazil did not respond to the request for approval, which is unusual in diplomatic circles.
Israel then withdrew the nomination. The foreign ministry stated that relations would now happen at a lower level. This means no full ambassadors will handle talks between the two countries for now.
Lula’s government stands firm. Officials say they will not accept any nominee while the Gaza conflict continues. Brazil demands an end to what it calls genocide in Gaza, where civilian deaths keep rising.
This rejection marks a new low. Experts say it could affect trade and cultural ties. Brazil is a major economy in Latin America, and Israel has tech and defense links there.
Here are key events in the timeline:
- October 2023: Israel launches military operations in Gaza after Hamas attacks.
- February 2024: Lula compares Gaza actions to Holocaust; Israel declares him persona non grata.
- May 2024: Brazil recalls its ambassador from Israel.
- July 2025: Brazil joins ICJ genocide case against Israel.
- August 2025: Brazil rejects new Israeli ambassador; ties downgraded.
Impact on Gaza Conflict and Global Views
The Gaza war lies at the heart of this dispute. Since October 2023, Israeli forces have killed at least 62,744 Palestinians, according to health officials in Gaza. Most victims are civilians, including many children.
Lula has been vocal. He says the war is not between armies but a powerful military against helpless people. This view echoes sentiments in many countries, especially in the Global South.
Israel defends its actions as self-defense against Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called Lula’s words antisemitic. He insists Israel fights terrorism, not civilians.
Globally, this rift highlights divisions. Some nations, like the United States, back Israel. Others, including South Africa and now Brazil, push for accountability.
The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to prevent genocide acts. Yet, fighting continues, with recent strikes in Gaza killing dozens more.
Economic and Political Fallout
Brazil and Israel share trade worth billions. Brazil exports beef and soy to Israel, while Israel sells tech and arms. Downgraded ties could slow deals.
Politically, Lula gains support at home. Many Brazilians see his stance as standing up for human rights. Polls show over 60 percent back his Gaza views.
For Israel, this isolates it further in Latin America. Countries like Colombia and Chile have also criticized the Gaza war.
| Aspect | Brazil’s Position | Israel’s Position |
|---|---|---|
| Gaza Conflict | Calls it genocide, demands ceasefire | Defends as self-defense against Hamas |
| Diplomatic Ties | Recalled ambassador, rejects new nominee | Downgraded relations, Lula persona non grata |
| International Actions | Joined ICJ case, recognizes Palestine | Rejects genocide claims, seeks allies |
| Trade Impact | Potential slowdown in exports | Loss of key Latin American partner |
What Happens Next
Experts predict no quick fix. Lula shows no sign of backing down. Israel insists on an apology before normal ties resume.
This could inspire other nations to take similar stands. Watch for moves at the United Nations, where Brazil pushes for Palestine rights.
The crisis underscores how the Gaza war affects global diplomacy. It shows leaders like Lula using their voice to challenge powerful nations.
Share your thoughts on this diplomatic standoff in the comments below. Did Brazil make the right call, or should ties stay strong despite disagreements? Your input helps spark important discussions.
