Colombian president calls on Trump to distance himself from Netanyahu

Saturday 07 March 2026 - 12:00

The president of Gustavo Petro has urged the president of the United States, Donald Trump, to distance himself politically from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

The Colombian leader made the remarks during a funeral ceremony held in Chicago for prominent American civil rights figure Jesse Jackson. In his speech, Petro paid tribute to Jackson, describing him as a powerful symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality for people of African descent throughout the Americas.

Addressing the broader geopolitical situation, Petro called for stronger international efforts to prevent further escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. He argued that global leaders must prioritize diplomacy and dialogue over confrontation.

Petro also appealed directly to the US administration, suggesting that Washington should reassess its relationship with the Israeli leadership. According to him, the current moment requires political responsibility and efforts aimed at avoiding deeper regional instability.

“The world is facing a dangerous period,” Petro said, emphasizing that humanity must come together to promote peace and prevent the conflict from expanding.

He stressed that military capabilities alone cannot resolve the crisis and argued that collective international pressure and dialogue remain essential tools for de-escalation.

During the ceremony, Petro’s remarks were met with applause from several attendees, some of whom stood in support. The Colombian president was also seen briefly exchanging words with former US president Barack Obama.

Observers say Petro’s comments reflect broader debates within the international community about the role of major powers in addressing the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the need for renewed diplomatic engagement.