(Opinion) Brazils diplomatic neutral ground in the Israel-Hamas issue isnt just a historical legacy but a calculated strategy serving multiple ends.Lets first address the economic aspect.The countrys trade with Israel is minuscule, accounting for a mere 0.37% of its total foreign trade.On the surface, this minimal involvement protects Brazil from immediate economic repercussions.
But its crucial to dive deeper.A major escalation in the conflict could trigger spikes in global oil prices, and Brazil isnt immune.The state-owned Petrobras could, however, act as a buffer.According to Jean Paul Prates, its President, the companys pricing strategy could cushion Brazil against some of these economic shocks.When Brent crude prices recently rose by 4.22%, the impact was moderate, demonstrating Petrobras agility in managing such crises.Transitioning to the diplomatic lens, Brazils neutrality is its diplomatic cornerstone.
Advocating a two-state solution, Brazil aligns itself with a global majority.This isnt a mere stance; its a policy dating back to 1948.
Oswaldo Aranha, a Brazilian diplomat, even led UN negotiations on Israels formation.Holding the current UN Security Council presidency and soon leading the BRICS bloc adds another layer to Brazils influence.The Calculated Neutrality of Brazil in the Israel-Hamas Crisis.
(Photo Internet reproduction)However, limitations exist.
The veto powers of the United States , Russia, and China constrain Brazils influence in the Security Council.Yet, Brazils BRICS alignment, especially with Russia and China, could be a diplomatic advantage.Both countries favor peace talks and a Palestinian state, fitting well with Brazils long-term view.Multi-Faceted StrategyDavid Magalhes, an international relations professor, argues that Brazils position is globally aligned.Brazils stance wont invite backlash even with the United States as a major ally of Israel.United States involvement in the conflict varies with each administration, making Brazils steady position a diplomatic advantage.Adding another layer of analysis, its vital to consider the countrys internal politics.By maintaining neutrality, Brazil can focus on pressing domestic issues without adding a complex international crisis to the mix.The approach also preserves Brazils international relationships across differing alliances and conflicting interests.In conclusion, Brazils neutral stance isnt just a passive position; its a multi-faceted strategy balancing economic, diplomatic, and internal factors.Given the intricate dynamics of todays global politics, Brazils policy is a well-considered and pragmatic choice.