Colombia expels Israeli diplomats following the Sumud Flotilla attack

The decision is considered Colombia's harshest diplomatic response toward Israel.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro had stated in his remarks prior to the attack that any potential intervention against the Sumud Flotilla would be a "clear violation of international law and a crime against humanity." In a post on his X account, Petro drew attention to the fact that the flotilla had "entered a high-risk zone," stating, "Drone activity is increasing and unknown vessels are being detected on radar." He had noted that everyone on the ships was waiting while wearing life jackets in anticipation of an attack.

Petro had also emphasized that they demanded full respect for the lives and dignity of more than 500 civilians, including Colombian volunteers Manuela Bedoya and Luna Barreto, who were on deck. He had reiterated that an attack on this humanitarian mission would be a violation of international law.

The Colombian leader had previously called for an international conference for the establishment of the State of Palestine and had drawn attention to the crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Petro had stated, "Should a conference not be initiated to establish a sovereign and free State of Palestine?"