No nation can truly be free until Palestine is free, and Colombia’s “Uniting for Peace” proposal at the UN exemplifies courageous international action despite U.S. retaliation.
One-paragraph summary: Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s “Uniting for Peace” proposal at the UN calls for enforceable protection for Palestinian civilians through a peacekeeping force, sanctions, and a weapons embargo, highlighting the importance of international solidarity. Despite facing severe retaliation from the U.S., including visa revocation, aid cuts, and sanctions, Colombia’s initiative emphasizes that global freedom and justice are interconnected with the Palestinian struggle. Worldwide solidarity actions, expert discussions, and civil society engagement are crucial to supporting this bold and principled stance, demonstrating that concrete action beyond rhetoric is necessary to uphold human rights and international law.
International observers emphasize that no nation can truly be free until Palestine is free, and that pro-Israel forces will target the sovereignty of any country taking concrete steps to support Palestine. This statement underscores the critical and courageous initiative of Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s “Uniting for Peace” proposal at the UN General Assembly, highlighting the importance of international solidarity and human rights advocacy.
Colombia’s Bold Move: The “Uniting for Peace” Proposal
President Petro took action to address the humanitarian crisis in Palestine by presenting a concrete solution at the United Nations. The “Uniting for Peace” proposal is not merely symbolic; it aims to create an enforceable protection mechanism under international law. The proposal calls for a UN-authorized peacekeeping force to safeguard civilians in Palestine, along with a weapons embargo and international sanctions to prevent genocidal actions by pro-Israel forces. This initiative positions Colombia as a courageous and principled actor on the global stage, advocating for justice and human rights.
Severe Retaliation and Sanctions from the United States
Colombia’s initiative faced direct retaliation from the U.S. administration. The U.S. decertified Colombia as a drug control partner, revoked President Petro’s visa preventing him from attending UN meetings, increased tariffs, and cut off all aid. Additionally, extrajudicial killings in the Caribbean and Pacific targeted citizens from multiple countries, including Colombia. These measures highlight the U.S.’s strategic attempt to undermine independent and courageous policy stances, demonstrating the high stakes of standing in solidarity with Palestine.
The Importance of International Solidarity
The retaliation against Colombia underscores the critical need for global solidarity. Experts and civil society organizations stress that support must go beyond words, translating into concrete actions. Every step taken for Palestine has far-reaching implications for global freedom and justice. Colombia’s stand represents a symbol of international unity, defending both human rights and the principles of international law.
Global Actions: Time to Show Support
Friends and solidarity groups are organizing global actions on Monday, November 17, at Colombian embassies and consulates. These initiatives are more than symbolic demonstrations: they include delivering letters of support, raising media awareness, and exerting direct pressure on UN member states. Visible global solidarity will be crucial to advancing Colombia’s proposal and sending a strong message to the international community.
Raising Awareness: Discussions and Videos
For those seeking more information about Colombia’s proposal and its support for Palestine, an in-depth discussion hosted by Hazami Barmada is available. Featuring experts Lamis Deek, Craig Mokhiber, and Ubai Aboudi, the discussion explores the scope of the proposal, its international implications, and the challenges it faces. Videos are available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Arabic, enabling civil society and global audiences to actively engage with the initiative.
The Call from the International Coalition
The International Coalition emphasizes that support for Colombia and President Petro must go beyond rhetoric. Global solidarity is the most effective tool to ensure concrete steps are taken to address the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. Activists, governments, and civil society alike are called upon to demonstrate their commitment to international law, human rights, and justice, making their solidarity visible and effective.
