“This election was a defeat for denialism and lies.” With these words, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, widely known as Lula, celebrated his victory in the presidential election runoff on 25th October 2026, securing a historic fourth non-consecutive term in office. Lula defeated his far-right rival Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, with 51.79 per cent of the vote against 48.21 per cent.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s re-election has reinforced the position of one of Latin America’s most outspoken critics of Israel and strongest supporters of Palestinian statehood, with political observers saying the result could reshape Brazil’s relations with Israel, the United States and the wider Global South.

Lula’s victory, however, comes at a critical moment for Latin America, amid the growing influence of right-wing political movements, shifting presidential leadership across the region and major developments in Venezuela following the US capture of President Nicolás Maduro in January 2026.

Against this changing political landscape, Lula’s re-election raises important questions about the future of Brazil’s support for Palestine and whether his government will maintain its outspoken opposition to Israeli policies in the face of mounting regional and international pressures.

The election also comes amid growing political divisions over Israel’s war on Gaza, with Brazil having emerged under Lula as one of the most vocal critics of Israeli military operations and a leading advocate for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

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However, with right-wing forces gaining ground in parts of Latin America and Washington seeking to strengthen its influence across the region, questions remain over how far Lula will be able or willing to pursue an independent foreign policy, particularly regarding Palestine and relations with Israel.

More importantly, will Brazil’s support for the Palestinian cause translate into concrete political and economic measures, or will it remain largely confined to speeches and condemnations at international forums?

Despite Lula’s repeated accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, economic relations between Brazil and Israel have continued, including trade in oil and other sectors. This has prompted criticism from Palestinian solidarity movements calling for a stronger response.

The central question is whether Lula’s........

© Middle East Monitor