Diplomatic tensions rose after Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva drew a controversial parallel between Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip and crimes attributed to Nazi Germany leader Adolf Hitler. The Israeli government expressed strong disapproval, prompting a sharp diplomatic response from Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and from Israel Katz. Reports indicate the Brazilian ambassador received a severe reprimand as a result of the remarks, according to the office of the Israeli prime minister.
Netanyahu stated that equating Israel with the Nazi Holocaust or Hitler crosses a red line. He argued that such comparisons trivialize the Holocaust, undermine Jewish memory, and threaten Israel’s security and international standing. Netanyahu described Lula’s comments as shameful and meaningless, underscoring that Israel is engaged in a legitimate effort to defend its people and territory under the framework of international law, while pursuing victory and security for the long term.
Following the statements, Israeli officials decided to summon the Brazilian ambassador to deliver a formal reprimand directed at the Brazilian government for the inappropriate analogy and its potential impact on regional stability and Jewish safety.
Foreign Minister Katz, via his social media channel, affirmed that the Brazilian ambassador would be summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to receive the formal notice on February 19. The move reflects a broader concern in Jerusalem over what is viewed as a harmful comparison that inflames tensions in a volatile region.
Earlier, Lula da Silva had linked Israel’s operations in Gaza to actions historically associated with Nazi crimes against Jews. Those remarks drew immediate scrutiny from Israeli leaders and international observers, who warned that such rhetoric could escalate hostility and complicate efforts to preserve civilian safety amid ongoing conflict.
In the broader regional context, some voices within the Arab world have argued that Western alliances have created a divide between the West and the Arab world. Critics say this division has hardened attitudes on both sides, with Hamas and other groups reiterating calls for a durable, enforceable ceasefire and for greater humanitarian access, while supporters of Israel emphasize the need for security guarantees and adherence to international law. Officials on both sides continue to stress the urgency of reducing civilian suffering and pursuing durable solutions despite deep-seated mistrust and political pressures.