Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro drew sharp attention on Friday by comparing the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza to the pain endured by Jesus Christ.
His remarks came during Holy Week, a time when Christians remember the final days of Jesus’ life.
Petro made the comments on social media in response to a post about Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, a well-known Palestinian doctor reportedly in critical condition while being held by Israeli forces. The doctor, who runs Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, was detained earlier this year. Human rights groups and Palestinian media have claimed he suffered serious mistreatment and that his health has since worsened.
The Colombian leader used the religious holiday to express concern over what he described as a bloody tragedy facing Palestinians. He has been a frequent critic of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and has often accused Israel of committing war crimes.
His recent statement adds to rising global criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands of civilians have been killed or displaced. While Petro speaks out in strong terms, Israel has consistently rejected such accusations. It maintains that its military actions are aimed at Hamas militants and not civilians or health workers.
The situation surrounding Dr. Safiya has drawn growing international concern, especially as reports of abuse in Israeli detention increase. Petro’s comments are likely to deepen tensions between Colombia and Israel, whose diplomatic relationship has been strained in recent months.