Outrage after Colombia’s president posts “Heil Hitler”

Outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro sparked a firestorm of criticism after posting the phrase “Heil Hitler” on social media during a heated political dispute ahead of Colombia’s presidential runoff election.

The remark drew swift condemnation from Israel and lawmakers across Latin America. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon demanded an apology, calling the use of Nazi slogans a disgrace, while Israel’s Foreign Ministry described the post as a “total loss of moral compass.” More than two dozen Latin American legislators also denounced Petro, warning that repeated Nazi comparisons trivialize the Holocaust and fuel antisemitism.

Petro later defended the comment, claiming he was criticizing what he viewed as “fascist” rhetoric from political opponents. However, critics noted that this is far from the first time he has invoked Nazi imagery. Since the October 7 Hamas massacre, Petro has repeatedly compared Israel to Nazi Germany, severed diplomatic ties with the Jewish state, and faced growing accusations of legitimizing anti-Israel and antisemitic rhetoric in Colombia.

The controversy comes just days before Colombia’s presidential runoff, with the country’s relationship with Israel emerging as a major campaign issue and pro-Israel candidates pledging to restore diplomatic ties if elected.