President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government has halted a major defense contract with Israel worth roughly 134 million dollars for ATMOS 2000 truck-mounted howitzers. The Brazilian Army canceled the planned signing of the initial contract after more than two years of delays tied to the conflict in Gaza and deep diplomatic strains between Brasília and Jerusalem. Lula has long criticized Israel’s military campaign, once comparing it to historical atrocities, which led Israel to declare him persona non grata and both countries to recall their ambassadors. With his recent reelection securing another term, the move signals continued resistance to restoring full military cooperation even as Brazil’s armed forces seek modernization. Supporters view it as a principled stand that prioritizes foreign policy consistency over defense deals, while critics warn it could slow the Army’s artillery upgrades. The cancellation underscores how the Gaza war continues to reshape global arms relationships and Brazil’s independent stance on the world stage.
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