Addressing fellow BRICS leaders on Sunday, President Lula denounced what he described as the indiscriminate killing of civilians and the use of hunger as a weapon. “We cannot remain indifferent to the genocide carried out by Israel in Gaza,” he stated, calling for renewed international commitment to peace and humanitarian law.

Lula has consistently been among the most vocal world leaders regarding the Gaza conflict, using international forums to amplify concern over civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction.

Diplomatic Efforts Resume In Qatar

Lula’s comments coincided with renewed ceasefire negotiations in Qatar. On Friday, Hamas indicated it had provided a “positive” response to the latest truce and prisoner exchange proposal, raising hopes for a de-escalation.

The talks come amid ongoing conflict and global criticism of the humanitarian toll in Gaza, where UN agencies have warned of widespread displacement and food shortages.

The BRICS summit—hosted in Rio this year—has served as a platform for several member states to voice positions on global conflicts, including the war in Gaza. Lula’s remarks reflect growing frustration in the Global South over what is seen as inadequate international intervention.

No immediate response was issued by Israeli officials to the Brazilian president’s comments.