Colombian President Gustavo Petro called on Israeli citizens Saturday to pressure their government to stop military operations in Lebanon, while expressing strong support for the recent memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran.

In a series of posts on the social media platform X, Petro emphasized the importance of upholding the US-Iran agreement, describing it as a step that brings “more life for the world.” He urged all nations to respect the pact and rally behind US President Donald Trump to help end the “terrible conflict” in the region.

Addressing Israeli citizens directly, Petro said civilians should compel their leaders to cease “attacking their neighbors,” whom he described as “brothers and sisters” rather than enemies. He criticized the Israeli government for continuing strikes against the “sovereign Lebanese Republic” despite recent diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.

“Civilians must force their leaders to stop attacking their neighbors,” Petro wrote.

Colombia currently holds the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council, which gives Petro’s statements additional diplomatic significance on the international stage.

Despite a ceasefire agreement, Israeli military operations in Lebanon have continued, with Israeli forces maintaining positions in southern Lebanon — including some areas held for decades and others captured in recent fighting. According to Lebanese official figures, Israel’s offensive since March 2 has resulted in more than 4,000 deaths, 11,873 injuries, and the displacement of over one million residents. Israeli forces have pushed more than 10 kilometers (6 miles) into Lebanese territory during the latest campaign.

Petro’s remarks reflect Colombia’s longstanding pro-Palestinian foreign policy stance under his administration and come as tensions remain high across the Middle East despite recent diplomatic initiatives. (ILKHA)