Colombian President Gustavo Petro signed a presidential decree today banning coal exports to Israel, marking a significant escalation in his country's stance on the Gaza genocide.

The decree, which aims to pressure the Netanyahu government to end its military operations in Gaza, follows earlier calls by the Colombian Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism to restrict coal sales to Israel. The move is part of a broader effort by Colombia to express its disapproval of Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, President Petro reiterated his government's condemnation of the Israeli government's actions, describing them as genocidal. This follows his announcement last May that Colombia would sever diplomatic relations with Israel in protest against its policies in Gaza.

The ban on coal exports is expected to have economic implications for both countries, given that coal is a significant export commodity for Colombia. However, the Colombian government has emphasized that the decision is driven by a commitment to human rights and international law.

The Israeli occupation regime has not yet responded to the announcement, but the move is likely to strain relations between the two nations further. (ILKHA)