Lula discusses Gaza reconstruction with Palestinian leader as Brazil weighs Trump invitation

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva held a phone call on Thursday (22) with National Palestinian Authority (ANP) President Mahmoud Abbas. During the conversation, the leaders discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian enclave that has been largely devastated by Israeli military operations over recent years, with more than 68,000 people killed.

In October last year, the Israeli government and the armed political group Hamas, which governs Gaza, signed a ceasefire agreement aimed at halting the bloodshed, which has disproportionately affected Palestinian women and children.

“While expressing satisfaction with the ceasefire achieved in Gaza, President Lula consulted President Abbas on the prospects for rebuilding the region and reiterated Brazil’s commitment to peace in the Middle East. Both leaders exchanged views on the ongoing peace plan and agreed to remain in contact on the matter,” Brazil’s presidential office said in a statement, without providing further details.

Despite the ceasefire, recent reports from United Nations agencies operating in the region indicate that bombings and gunfire have continued to occur in Gaza.

The talks also took place as U.S. President Donald Trump announced the creation of a so-called “Peace Council” for Gaza, a move that has drawn international attention amid ongoing debates over post-war governance and reconstruction of the enclave.

Earlier the same day, Lula also spoke by phone with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussing the situation in Gaza as well as broader global issues.

According to a statement released by Brazil’s presidential palace, Lula and Modi “exchanged views on the global situation” and “reaffirmed their shared conviction regarding the need for reform of the United Nations.”

The leaders also discussed preparations for President Lula’s upcoming state visit to New Delhi, scheduled to take place between February 19 and 21.

*With Agência Brasil and Ansa