Petro US visa revoked after Gaza protest speech at UN

Petro US visa revoked after Colombian president urges US soldiers to disobey Trump during pro-Palestinian protest at the UN in New York. The United States has announced it will revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro following his participation in a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City. The decision comes after Petro urged U.S. military personnel to disobey orders and made statements considered by Washington as provocative.

Petro Speaks Out at Pro-Palestinian Rally

Footage from the protest, which drew thousands of demonstrators, shows Petro speaking alongside notable figures, including British musician Roger Waters. In his address, Petro proposed the creation of a “World Salvation Army,” a multinational force he claims would enforce international justice and focus on the liberation of Palestine.

In his speech, Petro reportedly said:
“I ask all the soldiers of the US not to point their guns at humanity. Disobey the orders of Trump. Obey the orders of humanity.”

These remarks drew swift condemnation from the U.S. State Department, which labeled Petro’s actions as “reckless and incendiary,” prompting the visa revocation.

Tensions Rise Amid UN General Assembly

The demonstration coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly, during which he defended Israel’s actions in Gaza and criticized Western nations for recognizing a Palestinian state. The assembly has become a focal point for heated debates on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.

Petro, a vocal critic of Israel’s Gaza operations, has consistently condemned what he describes as acts of “genocide” against Palestinians. He severed diplomatic relations with Israel in 2024 and imposed trade restrictions, including a ban on coal exports, citing humanitarian concerns.

Petro’s Criticism of the United States

Beyond Israel, Petro has criticized the United States for its actions in the Caribbean, alleging U.S. air attacks on drug-trafficking boats. He called for legal proceedings against these operations, accusing former President Donald Trump of complicity in human rights violations.

Petro has leveraged social media to amplify his pro-Palestinian stance, sharing multiple videos and messages highlighting the plight of Gaza residents. One of his posts read: “Free Palestine. If Gaza falls, humanity dies.”

Implications for Colombia-US Relations

The revocation of Petro’s visa marks a significant strain in Colombia-U.S. relations, highlighting the growing tension between Washington and Petro’s left-wing government. Analysts suggest that the move may influence future diplomatic negotiations, trade discussions, and military cooperation between the two nations.

As the situation develops, Petro’s actions reflect the increasing role of global leaders in advocating for humanitarian causes, while also navigating the complexities of international diplomacy and geopolitical pressures.

Petro US visa revoked.