Uruguayans Demand Action: Calls to Sever Ties with Israel Gain Momentum

Uruguayans Demand Action: Calls to Sever Ties with Israel Gain Momentum

The recent nationwide protests in Uruguay, themed “Enough of Genocide! Peace, Justice, and Freedom,” have ignited a powerful movement advocating for Palestinian rights. With participation across all 19 departments, Montevideo emerged as the focal point of this significant demonstration.

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, as cited by Doctors Without Borders, Gaza experienced a devastating toll, with over 66,000 deaths and more than 168,000 injuries reported between October 7, 2023, and October 1, 2025. The healthcare system in the region has been severely compromised, leaving only 14 out of 36 hospitals still partially operational, as noted by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

The protests were further intensified by a recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. While this agreement has been seen as a potential step towards peace, many activists express skepticism, believing that real change requires more than just a temporary halt in hostilities.

In Montevideo, demonstrators took to the streets, proudly waving Palestinian flags and chanting powerful slogans, including:

  • “It was a hospital, not a military base!”
  • “Zionist state, you’re the real terrorists!”

Handmade signs conveyed poignant messages, such as, “In the face of extermination’s chill, the only resistance worth having is the one that boils your blood. Never stay lukewarm before a genocide.” Another sign poignantly stated, “Gaza’s children are not a threat,” accompanied by stuffed animals and toys symbolizing the innocence of the victims.

Daniela López, a union leader and key coordinator for the Pro-Palestine group, emphasized the significance of the protest turnout, stating, “We know this is going to be the biggest march we’ve ever had. Two years into this genocide, it’s almost impossible not to condemn it—and people are voicing that on the streets, as a mark of our shared humanity.” She noted the increasing momentum of the movement, referencing a similar rally in February 2024 that attracted 15,000 participants, indicating growing solidarity for the cause.

The Broad Front (Frente Amplio), Uruguay’s left-leaning political coalition, publicly supported the protests. In a statement made during a political roundtable, the party condemned the “genocide orchestrated by Benjamin Netanyahu’s government” and called for an immediate humanitarian corridor to facilitate the entry of food and medical supplies into Gaza. Party President Fernando Pereira participated in the march, reinforcing the coalition’s commitment to global justice.

A pivotal moment arose when Vice President Carolina Cosse publicly referred to the situation in Gaza as “genocide” for the first time. Speaking to Subrayado news agency from the midst of the crowd, Cosse stated, “There is a genocide.” When addressing the calls to sever ties with Israel, she noted that such decisions lie with the executive branch and emphasized her presence at the march as a stand for peace and humanitarian values.

In a remarkable display of unity, over 100 Jewish Uruguayans joined the protests, expressing their opposition to Israeli actions in Gaza. One participant stated, “Zionism is a racist and supremacist ideology perpetrating a genocide. Israel doesn’t represent the majority of Jews in the diaspora—you can’t conflate Zionism with Judaism or Jews.” Their participation highlighted the diverse and inclusive nature of the movement, transcending religious and cultural boundaries in the pursuit of justice for Palestinians.

Former lawmaker Constanza Moreira read the full declaration of the coordination, accusing Israeli leaders of attempting to erase a nation and its memory. The declaration reiterated calls for Uruguay to officially recognize the genocide, initiate investigations into war crimes, halt relations with Israel until international law is respected, and cease exports that may contribute to the conflict.

The statement concluded with a strong message: “Silence is complicity; inaction is complicity—the time to act is now. Peace isn’t just the absence of bombs; it’s freedom with justice.”

As night fell, the energy of the protests lingered, signaling a transformative shift in Uruguay’s political landscape. With President Yamandú Orsi‘s administration in its early stages, these demonstrations serve as a clear mandate for bolder actions in support of Palestinian rights and against injustices in Gaza. The streets of Uruguay have become a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to human rights, justice, and international solidarity.

This moment in history represents not just a protest, but a collective stand for peace, echoing the sentiments of many who believe in the fundamental rights of all people. The movement’s momentum continues to grow, reflecting a significant chapter in Uruguay’s ongoing dialogue about peace and justice.

Similar Posts

  • Iran and Afghanistan: A Vital Link for Regional Security and Stability, Says Araghchi

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during his visit to Kabul, highlighted the interdependence of Iran’s security and Afghanistan’s stability, advocating for enhanced cooperation to address bilateral challenges. Meeting with Afghanistan’s acting Prime Minister Mohammad Hasan Akhund, Araghchi expressed satisfaction with the security developments in Afghanistan and emphasized the need to strengthen relations with the Islamic Emirate. A key issue discussed was the water dispute stemming from the 1973 Helmand River Treaty, which Afghanistan has not fully honored, impacting Iran’s water share. Both leaders agreed on the importance of collaboration to manage refugee issues and improve diplomatic ties.

  • Judiciary Chief Champions Regional Collaboration to Tackle Key Challenges

    Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei emphasized the need for cooperation among neighboring states to tackle regional and international challenges during discussions with Tajikistan’s Supreme Court Chairman, Rustam Mirzozoda, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting in Hangzhou, China. He highlighted Iran’s commitment to strengthen ties with Tajikistan, particularly in legal matters, and urged Muslim nations to address injustices in Gaza. Mirzozoda welcomed recent diplomatic efforts, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Tajikistan, and expressed optimism about enhancing bilateral relations. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to regional collaboration and tackling mutual challenges.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.

  • Secret Negotiations Unveiled: HTS and Israel Engage on Shebaa Farms and Golan Heights

    Negotiations over the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights have gained attention due to a potential territorial exchange involving the Shebaa Farms area. Reports suggest Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) may give up control of the Golan Heights in return for Israel ceding Shebaa Farms to Syria, pending approval from at least 80 Knesset members. Hezbollah opposes any changes to the status quo and condemns Western support for Israel’s military actions. HTS, historically linked to extremist groups, has expressed a willingness to recognize Israel by 2026. Meanwhile, Israel continues military operations in southwest Syria, raising concerns about regional stability and sovereignty issues.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.

  • Iran’s Zarif Engages in High-Level Talks with Iraq’s President in Switzerland

    During the Davos 2025 event, Iran’s Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif met with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid in Switzerland to strengthen Iran-Iraq relations. Their discussions focused on promoting bilateral ties and cooperation across sectors such as environment, energy, economy, and security. President Rashid highlighted the importance of enhancing regional relations for mutual stability and security. Zarif reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to fostering ties with Iraq, emphasizing that the progress and welfare of both nations are priorities. This meeting underscores a shared intent to deepen collaboration amidst the ongoing World Economic Forum, themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.”