Introduction
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has once again stirred global controversy by accusing Israel of committing a “premeditated genocide” in Gaza. During a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on June 5, 2025, Lula harshly criticised Israel’s ongoing military operations, describing them as a deliberate assault on civilians, particularly women and children.
Lula’s Accusation: “It’s Not War, It’s Genocide”
Speaking alongside Macron at the Elysee Palace, Lula stated, “What is happening in Gaza is not a war. It’s a genocide being carried out by a highly prepared army against women and children.” The Brazilian leader emphasized that Israel’s 20-month-long offensive, which has resulted in more than 54,607 Palestinian deaths according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, amounts to premeditated violence sanctioned by a far-right government.
This is not the first time Lula has criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, but his use of the phrase “premeditated genocide” marks one of the strongest condemnations yet from a major world leader.
Death Toll Rises as Gaza Crisis Deepens
On the same day Lula made his comments, Israeli strikes reportedly killed at least 52 more people, including women and children. The enclave remains under a crushing blockade that has pushed its 2.3 million residents into extreme food insecurity.
Eyewitnesses and medical sources told Al Jazeera that Israeli attacks on aid distribution sites—many managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—have worsened the humanitarian situation dramatically.
Macron and EU’s Position: Caution and Humanitarian Concern
While President Macron did not directly endorse Lula’s claims, he maintained a cautious stance. Last month, he stated that using the term “genocide” should be left to historians and legal experts, not political figures. Nevertheless, France has repeatedly expressed concern over Israel’s military conduct in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Germany’s Rare Rebuke of Israel
Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul issued a rare public criticism of Israel’s handling of the Gaza crisis. In a meeting with Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar, Wadephul demanded greater humanitarian access and emphasized that Germany is reassessing whether Israeli actions conform to international law. He also voiced concern over Israel’s announcement to expand West Bank settlements—22 new sites—calling it a direct threat to the two-state solution.
Jordan and Spain Push for Peace and Palestinian Recognition
Meanwhile, Jordan’s King AbdullahKing Felipe in Madrid, Abdullah stressed the importance of garnering European support for an Arab-led reconstruction plan for Gaza that prevents displacement of its residents—countering proposals previously floated by US officials including Donald Trump.
Conclusion: Global Divisions Over Gaza Intensify
As the Gaza conflict escalates, international political divides are sharpening. While countries like Brazil and Jordan push for stronger condemnations and long-term solutions, others such as France and Germany remain cautiously critical, navigating legal frameworks and diplomatic constraints.
With tens of thousands already dead and starvation looming, the question remains: how much longer can the international community watch without unified action?
