Colombia has appointed Richard Gamboa Ben-Eleazar as director of religious affairs, sparking widespread controversy due to his self-declared rabbinical status, lack of recognition, and anti-Zionist beliefs. This appointment follows Colombia’s severed diplomatic ties with Israel, prompted by President Gustavo Petro’s criticism of Israeli policies. Critics assert Gamboa’s qualifications are dubious, raising fears about his influence on public policy regarding religious freedoms in Colombia.

Colombia’s recent diplomatic shifts have ignited controversy, particularly the appointment of Richard Gamboa Ben-Eleazar as the director of religious affairs at the Ministry of the Interior. Gamboa, who claims to be a rabbi, lacks recognition from established Jewish communities and has made numerous anti-Zionist statements, prompting criticism from various sectors including religious and diplomatic circles.

The diplomatic clash between Colombia and Israel escalated following remarks from President Gustavo Petro condemning Israeli actions in Gaza after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks. These remarks led to both nations recalling their ambassadors, and in May 2024, Petro severed diplomatic relations with Israel entirely. This decision marked Colombia’s unprecedented stance in Latin America and prompted backlash from Jewish organizations globally.

Amidst allegations of Gamboa’s lack of legitimate rabbinical credentials, he has been criticized for obtaining his title from an uncertified online institution. Gamboa’s claims of leadership within obscure Jewish organizations have further drawn scrutiny, particularly given his inflammatory rhetoric labeling Israel a “neo-Nazi state” and branding Zionism as “an anti-Jewish heresy.” These statements raise concerns over potential hate speech under the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definitions of antisemitism.

In January 2025, Gamboa co-authored a declaration that seeks to redefine antisemitism while rejecting established definitions, arguing that critiques of Israel are not anti-Jewish but necessary expressions of justice. His rhetoric continues to alarm several religious leaders, including Rabbi Mauricio Balter, who views the appointment as politically motivated and harmful to the Jewish community’s representation.

Critics like Marcos Peckel accentuate that Gamboa’s appointment lacks credibility and poses dangers in terms of public policy. They contend that someone who vilifies religious participants cannot be entrusted with leadership over religious freedoms. Peckel further argues that Gamboa’s rise epitomizes a broader political strategy used by President Petro to target Israel.

International observers, including Ariel Gelblung from the Simon Wiesenthal Center, express concerns that the appointment is a part of a calculated approach to further an antisemitic agenda and undermine established Jewish communities. Gelblung clarified that Gamboa’s questionable qualifications could pose a risk to the legal status of Jewish organizations.

Leading figures within Colombia’s Jewish community underscore the urgency of opposition to Gamboa’s appointment. Although Gamboa’s direct influence is concerning, many agree that the more significant threat is rooted in the political backing he receives from President Petro, enabling his extremist narratives.

Photographic evidence of Gamboa at official meetings with anti-Zionist groups has raised alarms regarding the Colombian government’s endorsement of extremist views. This incident has united various Jewish denominations in Colombia, highlighting a collective rejection of Gamboa’s representation.

As public outcry grows, Colombian authorities now face the dilemma of either maintaining a polarizing figure with contentious legitimacy or reassessing Gamboa’s controversial position. The implications of this decision extend well beyond local concerns and may impact international relations.

The appointment of Richard Gamboa as Colombia’s director of religious affairs has raised serious concerns among both domestic and international observers. His lack of legitimate rabbinical credentials, combined with inflammatory rhetoric against Israel, reflects a troubling shift in Colombia’s diplomatic and domestic policy under President Petro. The backlash from the Jewish community and international watchdogs underscores the need for careful consideration of the implications of Gamboa’s role. Colombian authorities must navigate these challenges thoughtfully to restore faith in their commitment to safeguarding religious freedoms.

Original Source: themedialine.org

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