Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accused Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu of killing innocent people to maintain his power. Lula made this statement while receiving Brazilians who were repatriated from Lebanon. The first flight of repatriation arrived in Brazil on Sunday (6th). The plane, operated by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), landed at São Paulo Air Base in Guarulhos at 10:25 am.
In a speech following the passengers’ arrival, Lula criticized the Israeli government: “We have seen a very harsh response to Hamas’ invasion of Tel Aviv, but we also see a harsh response from the Israeli government, killing innocents, women, and children with no respect for human life. It’s a way for Netanyahu to stay in power, seeking revenge against the Palestinians,” said Lula.
Lula affirmed that the government will continue working to repatriate all Brazilians who are in Lebanon and wish to return to Brazil. According to the Presidential Office, approximately three thousand people have expressed interest in coming back to Brazilian soil.
“I hope you find happiness here in Brazil, which was taken from you by the bombings in Lebanon,” Lula added.
The Brazilian president also condemned the Israeli airstrikes on Beirut, Lebanon’s capital. “Brazil is a generous country. We don’t have conflicts with any nation in the world. We don’t wish for war. War only destroys. What builds is peace,” he emphasized.
Lula made his appearance in Guarulhos after voting in São Bernardo do Campo (SP). He is expected to return to Brasília later on Sunday.
First Lady Janja da Silva also accompanied Lula during the reception of the repatriated Brazilians. She addressed the women and children who had returned, urging for an end to the violence.
“[I want] to repeat a message to the men of the world: please stop killing our women and children. End this war. The world needs peace. We don’t need bombs and more deaths,” said the First Lady.
Brazilian Air Force commander Marcelo Damasceno said the goal is to repatriate 500 people per week. The KC-30 aircraft used in this first flight will depart São Paulo Air Base at 2:00 pm, heading back to Lebanon. The plane is expected to follow the same route, with the repatriated passengers arriving in Brazil on Tuesday (8th).
