By Belize Live News Staff: Public debate over Belize’s stance toward Israel and Palestine has escalated following comments by Church Senator Louis M. Wade Jr., who accused the government of unfair hostility toward Israel. Wade highlighted Belize’s diplomatic relations with countries involved in conflicts, including Venezuela, China, Russia, Ukraine, and Guatemala, where citizens continue to live, work, and travel freely in Belize.
He questioned why Belize maintains open ties with such nations while appearing to turn against Israel, particularly through support for a petition to remove the visa waiver for Israeli citizens. Wade condemned the move as discriminatory, calling it “antisemitism” and “racism.”
The controversy follows Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca’s statement that he is prepared to take the petition to the Cabinet for further consideration. The petition, spearheaded by Liberation 9/21, has already gained over 300 signatures.
As Church Senator, Wade has also warned against foreign policy decisions that could be perceived as unjust or prejudicial. He stressed that Belize’s approach should remain rooted in principles of fairness, respect, and peace, rather than singling out one nation for punitive measures.
As the issue continues to unfold, both supporters and critics await the Cabinet’s deliberations on whether to maintain or revoke Israel’s visa waiver status.
