By Online Peoples News, 6th February, Kathmandu: In a powerful critique of US foreign policy, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has condemned the United States’ plan to take control of the Gaza Strip, calling it a blatant violation of Palestinian sovereignty. Speaking to Brazilian radio stations Itatiaia, Mundo Melhor, and BandNewsFM BH on Wednesday, Lula denounced the US-Israeli collaboration as an extension of imperialist aggression and reiterated his support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
US-Israeli Plan to Occupy Gaza: A New Chapter in Imperialism
The US government, in collaboration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, recently announced plans to take control of the Gaza Strip. This move has been widely criticized as an attempt to further entrench Israeli occupation and undermine Palestinian sovereignty. Lula, a staunch advocate for global justice and anti-imperialism, did not mince words in his condemnation.
“The US participated in encouraging everything Israel did in the Gaza Strip. So it doesn’t make sense to meet with the president of Israel and say, ‘We’re going to occupy Gaza, we’re going to recover Gaza, we’re going to live in Gaza’. Where are the Palestinians going to go?” Lula asked, highlighting the absurdity and inhumanity of the plan.
The Brazilian president emphasized that the Palestinian people must be the ones to govern Gaza, rebuild their homes, hospitals, and schools, and live with dignity and respect. “What happened in Gaza was a genocide,” Lula declared, echoing the sentiments of millions around the world who have witnessed the devastating impact of Israel’s military campaigns on Palestinian civilians.
A Call for Palestinian Statehood and Peaceful Coexistence
Lula reiterated his long-standing support for the creation of an independent Palestinian state, existing side by side with Israel in peace and harmony. “We advocate the creation of a Palestinian state, like the state of Israel, and establishing a policy of harmonious coexistence, because that’s what the world needs. The world doesn’t need arrogance or catchphrases. The world needs peace and tranquility,” he said.
This vision of peaceful coexistence stands in stark contrast to the US-Israeli agenda, which seeks to impose control over Palestinian territories through military force and political coercion. Lula’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one that respects the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.
Lula’s Critique of Trump: Imperialism and Bluster
Lula also took aim at former US President Donald Trump, whose administration was marked by aggressive rhetoric and unilateral actions on the global stage. “You have the kind of politician who thrives on bluster. President Trump ran his campaign like this, and now in office, he’s already announced that he’s going to occupy Greenland, annex Canada, change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and occupy the Panama Canal,” Lula said.
The Brazilian president criticized Trump’s approach to international relations, which often prioritized threats and coercion over diplomacy and cooperation. “Honestly, no country, no matter how important, can fight with everyone all the time,” Lula remarked, highlighting the futility of such a confrontational strategy.
Standing Up to US Economic Aggression
Lula also addressed the economic dimensions of US imperialism, particularly the Trump administration’s use of tariffs as a tool of coercion. Recently, Trump imposed tariffs of 10% on China and 25% on Canada and Mexico, citing unfounded claims about immigration and drug trafficking. Lula made it clear that Brazil would not bow to such pressure.
“It’s very simple: if he taxes Brazilian products, Brazil will reciprocate. There’s no difficulty. I’ve governed Brazil under Republican and Democratic presidents. My relationship is always the same: that of a sovereign state with another sovereign state. I want to respect the US, and I want Trump to respect Brazil. That’s it. If that happens, that’s good enough,” Lula stated.
This firm stance reflects Lula’s commitment to defending Brazil’s sovereignty and resisting economic imperialism. By refusing to capitulate to US demands, Lula sets an example for other nations seeking to assert their independence in the face of global superpowers.
A Global Struggle Against Imperialism
Lula’s remarks resonate deeply with the struggles of oppressed peoples around the world, from Palestine to Latin America. His condemnation of US-Israeli plans to occupy Gaza is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against imperialism and colonialism. It also highlights the importance of international solidarity in confronting these injustices.
The Brazilian president’s call for Palestinian statehood and peaceful coexistence aligns with the broader demands of the global left for a world free from exploitation, oppression, and war. As the US and its allies continue to pursue aggressive policies, voices like Lula’s serve as a beacon of hope for those fighting for a more just and equitable world.
Solidarity with Palestine, Resistance to Imperialism
Lula’s critique of US imperialism and his unwavering support for Palestinian sovereignty are a testament to his commitment to justice and equality. In a world dominated by powerful nations seeking to impose their will on others, Lula’s voice stands out as a powerful advocate for the oppressed and marginalized.
As the people of Palestine continue to resist occupation and fight for their rights, they can count on the solidarity of leaders like Lula and movements around the world. The struggle for Palestinian liberation is inseparable from the broader fight against imperialism, and it is only through collective action and international solidarity that true justice can be achieved.
Online Peoples News stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and all those fighting against imperialism, colonialism, and oppression. Together, we can build a world based on peace, justice, and equality.