The Argentine Presidency announced, on Friday, the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization and froze its financial assets, a move largely symbolic in nature. President Javier Milei aims to strengthen Argentina’s alliances with the United States and Israel, according to the American network ABC.
The network added that the decision, announced by Milei’s office, cited Hamas’s close ties with Iran, which Argentina holds responsible for two deadly attacks on Jewish sites in the country. This announcement comes just days before the 30th anniversary of the bombing at the Jewish community center in Buenos Aires in 1994, which left 85 people dead and hundreds injured, marking the worst attack of its kind in modern Argentine history.
Another attack on the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires in 1992 resulted in 20 deaths. The Argentine judiciary has accused members of Hezbollah, backed by Iran, of executing these attacks. It is also noted that upon his arrival in Israel in February, President Milei announced his intention to relocate his country’s embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.
Since the Gaza war began on October 7, various countries have articulated their positions on Hamas, reflecting a spectrum of stances influenced by political, strategic, and regional considerations.
The EU, including key members like Germany, has emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself, while also calling for adherence to international law and the importance of protecting civilians. European leaders have stressed the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza. They have shown support for Israel while also advocating for peace and the protection of human rights.
Diverse reactions can be seen across Africa. For example, Algeria and South Africa have shown strong support for the Palestinian cause, often criticizing Israeli actions in Gaza. Conversely, some nations like Cameroon have publicly backed Israel. The responses have largely been influenced by historical ties and regional affiliations.
Meanwhile, Qatar has played a significant role in mediating between Hamas and Israel, facilitating discussions and ceasefire agreements. This is in line with Qatar’s long-standing policy of mediating in international disputes. Meanwhile, Bahrain and the UAE, signatories of the Abraham Accords, have faced internal pressures regarding their normalization of ties with Israel due to the conflict. There have been fluctuations in their public statements concerning the conflict, with some initial resistance to outright condemnation of Hamas.
