Nicaragua Severs Diplomatic Ties with Israel

The Central American country of Nicaragua has officially cut diplomatic ties with Israel, condemning the Israeli government’s policies as “fascist” and “genocidal.” The Nicaraguan administration stated that the ongoing military operations in Palestinian territories were the main reason behind this decision, further straining relations.

The move comes after Nicaragua’s Congress urged action on the anniversary of last year’s Gaza conflict. The government emphasized that the situation is no longer limited to Palestinian regions but has escalated to include Lebanon, with increasing risks to Syria, Yemen, and Iran.

Tensions in the region spiked earlier this month following a missile strike from Iran targeting Israel, putting the Middle East on high alert. Iran’s ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, an organization that has been targeted in recent Israeli strikes, have added to the volatile situation.

Iran is also a close ally of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega’s government. In recent years, Nicaragua has become more isolated on the international front, especially after President Ortega’s controversial crackdown on anti-government protests in 2018, which led to the deaths of nearly 300 people, according to human rights organizations.