Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the expulsion of the remaining Israeli diplomatic mission in his country in protest against Israeli forces intercepting the humanitarian aid convoy known as the “Fleet of Resilience” en route to Gaza and detaining two Colombian citizens in international waters.
In a statement, Petro declared, “Israel committed an international crime by intercepting the fleet,” emphasizing his rejection of any violation of the safety and freedoms of Colombian citizens abroad. He also announced the immediate cancellation of the Free Trade Agreement with Tel Aviv.
Colombia had severed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2024 in protest of the war on Gaza but maintained consular representation consisting of 40 staff members, including four Israeli diplomats, according to Colombian sources.
In response, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that its naval forces had stopped several ships from the “Global Fleet of Resilience” and transferred their passengers to an Israeli port, adding that “Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and her companions are safe.”
The “Fleet of Resilience,” which set sail in early September from Spain, consists of around 45 ships carrying hundreds of activists from over 40 countries, along with baby formula, food supplies, and medical aid. Organizers emphasized that the mission is peaceful and nonviolent.
Spokespersons for the fleet stated that the interception occurred in international waters and affirmed that their efforts to reach Gaza would continue until the Israeli blockade on the territory is lifted. Meanwhile, cities across the Arab world and Europe witnessed protests condemning Israel’s actions.