Colombia Suspends Coal Exports to Israel in Protest Over Gaza Conflict
In a bold move of solidarity with the people of Gaza, Colombia has announced the suspension of coal exports to Israel. President Gustavo Petro made the announcement on Saturday, stating that the decision was made in protest over the ongoing war in Gaza.
“We are going to suspend coal exports to Israel until the genocide stops,” Petro declared, sharing a draft decree issued by the ministry of trade. The decree stipulates that exports will only resume once Israel complies with orders from the International Court of Justice to halt its military offensive in Rafah.
Colombia is Israel’s largest supplier of coal, with exports worth $320 million in the first eight months of last year. The decision to suspend exports comes on the heels of similar actions taken by Turkey and the Maldives, who have also halted trade with Israel in solidarity with Gaza.
Despite the long-standing relationship between Colombia and Israel, Petro has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The move to suspend coal exports is seen as a significant departure from the warm relations between the two countries.
Critics of the decision, including Colombia’s mining association, warn that the move could have negative consequences for Colombia’s economy. However, Petro remains steadfast in his commitment to standing up for human rights and promoting global peace.
As Colombia navigates the complexities of international relations, the decision to suspend coal exports to Israel highlights the country’s willingness to take a stand on issues of global importance.