Brazil's Lula Likens Gaza Operation to Holocaust, Israel Says "Red Line" Crossed

Brazilian President Lula da Silva equated Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip to genocide and likened them to Hitler's Holocaust, causing outrage in Israel.

Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned Lula's statements, deeming them a serious insult, and summoned Brazil's ambassador in protest. Hamas, however, applauded Lula's characterization.

Speaking from an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Lula criticized the unequal conflict in Gaza, involving a powerful army against civilians. Despite previously condemning Hamas's attacks as terrorism, Lula has been increasingly critical of Israel's military response.

Netanyahu rejected any comparison to the Holocaust as offensive, emphasizing Israel's self-defense efforts and adherence to international law. Israeli leaders, including President Herzog and Defense Minister Gallant, were also quick to denounce Lula's comments as historical distortions and deeply offensive.

Lula also took issue with Western nations stopping funds to UNRWA following allegations of employee involvement in attacks against Israel. In contrast, he announced Brazil's intentions to increase support for the agency and called on other countries to do the same. He underscored his support for a two-state solution and the definitive recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state.