Brazil Delays Approval for Israeli Ambassador, Heightening Diplomatic Tensions

Brazil has withheld approval for Israel to appoint Gali Dagan as ambassador for two months, escalating tensions with Netanyahu’s government. Itamaraty has not responded to Israel’s diplomatic request, which may lead to a downgrade in diplomatic relations. The two countries have exchanged criticisms regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, and Dagan is an experienced diplomat.

Brazil, under the leadership of President Lula, has delayed its approval for Israel’s appointment of a new ambassador for two months, which may escalate diplomatic tensions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration. In late January, Israel submitted a formal request for agrément to send Gali Dagan as its ambassador to Brazil.

As of Wednesday, February 19, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry, Itamaraty, had not acknowledged this request. Traditionally, when a government opposes a nomination, it refrains from officially denying the request, thus leaving it unanswered. If Brazil does not provide approval, the country will effectively lower its diplomatic relations with Israel, which will only maintain a chargé d’affaires in Brazil.

Itamaraty described these diplomatic processes as “routine and confidential until agrément is granted” and chose not to comment further. Similarly, the Israeli embassy in Brasília has remained silent on the matter. Furthermore, exchanges between Lula and Netanyahu have intensified in recent months due to Israel’s military activities in Gaza.

Gali Dagan is a seasoned career diplomat who has been with Israel’s foreign ministry since 2006. His previous roles include serving as the deputy chief of mission at the embassy in Lima, Peru, and as a counselor within Israel’s delegations to significant international bodies, including the European Union and NATO.

The Brazilian government’s delay in approving Gali Dagan’s appointment as Israel’s ambassador is indicative of the strained relationship between Brazil and Israel. This situation not only highlights the ongoing diplomatic tensions stemming from recent conflicts in Gaza but also signals a potential shift in Brazil’s foreign relations policy. Without approval, Israel’s diplomatic presence in Brazil may be downgraded, affecting bilateral relations significantly.

Original Source: www1.folha.uol.com.br