The Arab countries have begun an offensive against Brazil’s “equidistant policy” regarding the Middle East conflict. Affirming that he speaks in the name of all Arab diplomatic missions in Brazil, the Algerian Ambassador, All Lakhdari, warned that Brazil must clearly define her position regarding Resolution 242 of the UN Security Council if she wants Arab oil supplies to be continued. He said that the three principle aspects, of the resolution are: Israel’s evacuation of all Arab territories conquered during the Six-Day War; recognition of the rights of the Palestinians; and Arab control over Jerusalem.
The Foreign Ministry in Brasilia has not commented so far. However “O Estado de Sao Paulo,” the influential Sao Paulo daily, accused the Ambassador of interfering in Brazil’s internal affairs. In its editorial (“An Unfortunate Interview”), the newspaper denounced the Arab diplomat’s statement made in public, instead of using the normal diplomatic channel, as an effort to intimidate the Brazilian people.
The threats of the Algerian Ambassador are only the beginning. More pressure is expected. The Lebanese Foreign Minister, Fuad Naffah, is scheduled to officially visit Brazil Jan. 29. He is considered the spokesman for the Arab countries in Latin America, where he is now visiting.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
