María Corina Machado, one of Venezuela’s strongest opposition leaders, has often voiced her opinions on international conflicts, including the ongoing Israel–Palestine crisis. Her comments about Gaza and Palestine reveal how she connects Venezuela’s political struggle with global fights for democracy and against terrorism.
Background: Venezuela’s Diplomatic Break with Israel
In 2009, during the Gaza war, Venezuela’s then-president Hugo Chávez broke diplomatic relations with Israel in protest against its military operations in Gaza. Since then, Venezuela has supported Palestine and maintained close ties with countries that oppose Israel.
However, Machado, as an opposition figure, has always disagreed with Chávez and Maduro’s foreign policy. She believes Venezuela should rebuild its ties with democratic nations, including Israel.
Machado’s Response to the Gaza Conflict
When Hamas launched its deadly attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, Machado condemned the violence and expressed her solidarity with Israel. She described Hamas as a “terrorist organization” and said such attacks represent “the same evil” that Venezuelans face under dictatorship.
Her statement — “Venezuela’s struggle is Israel’s struggle” — drew global attention. Through this, she tried to show that both nations are fighting similar battles: one against terrorism, the other against authoritarianism.
Support for Israel and Her Political Message
Machado’s approach toward Gaza is not only about foreign policy; it’s also part of her broader political identity. By supporting Israel, she positions herself as a defender of democracy and freedom, aligning Venezuela with Western values.
She also said that if her party comes to power, they will restore diplomatic relations with Israel, which were cut off more than a decade ago.
Criticism and Controversy
Despite her intentions, Machado’s stance has faced criticism. Many human-rights activists and left-wing commentators accuse her of ignoring the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the suffering of Palestinian civilians. They argue that true democratic values include compassion for all victims, not just one side.
Her supporters, however, claim that her stand is consistent with her fight against oppression and that condemning terrorism does not mean rejecting compassion for innocent lives.
Final Thoughts
Maria Corina Machado’s position on Gaza and Palestine highlights how Venezuelan politics often connect with global issues.
- To her followers, she represents courage and moral clarity.
- To her critics, she represents selective empathy and political alignment with Western powers.
Either way, her views show how the Gaza conflict continues to shape not only Middle-Eastern politics but also international alliances far away — even in Latin America.