Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared on Wednesday (May 1) that Colombia would sever diplomatic relations with Israel, as reported by Al Jazeera, a Qatar-based media outlet.

President Petro made the announcement on the occasion of International Workers' Day, during a rally held with supporters in the capital city of Bogotá. He cited ongoing Israeli aggression as the primary reason behind the decision.

In his speech at the rally's conclusion, President Petro strongly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also urged other nations to take a firm stance against Tel Aviv amid the ongoing case at the International Criminal Court regarding the Gaza genocide.

The announcement marks a significant diplomatic shift for Colombia and underscores the country's solidarity with the Palestinian cause. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, President Petro's decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for international relations.