Members of Brazilian National Congress  in Israel
Members of Brazilian National Congress in IsraelIsrael Allies Foundation

The first high-level Latin American delegation to Israel since October 7th arrived in Israel today (Wednesday) from Brazil. Hosted by the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF), the mission’s objective is to express staunch support for Israel and to strengthen the alliance between the two countries.

Brazilian Members of Congress joining the delegation include Chief of Mission Senator Carlos Viana, Senator Alexandre Giordano, Deputy Carla Zambelli and Deputy Sargento Gonçalves.

With 75% of Brazilians reportedly in favor of Israel, the delegates aim to represent the pro-Israel majority in contrast to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, whose lack of support for Israel is public knowledge. The representatives’ goal is to boost the relationship between Brazil’s Congress and the Government of Israel, and to return to their home country with the ability to better inform their government about the situation in Israel.

Chief of Mission Senator Carlos Viana—who is also President of the Brazil-Israel Parliamentary Group—said, “We want to make it clear to the people of Israel that we do not agree with the recent statements made by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in his view of the State of Israel and the Hamas terrorist group. We assert that Israel has the right to defend itself, to position itself, and to exist."

The IAF will host the delegation for several meetings at the Knesset, where Senators and Deputies will hear from Speaker of the Knesset MK Amir Ohana and head of the Israel-Brazil Parliamentary Friendship Group Moshe Saada. Members of the delegation will also tour the Gaza Strip border towns to visit the sites of the October 7th attacks, as well as tour Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.

“This show of solidarity from Brazilian Members of Congress reflects the importance of faith-based diplomacy,” said IAF President Josh Reinstein. “It is an honor to host the delegation, and we are confident that this critical visit will strengthen the alliance between our two countries.”