Department of Research, Strategic Studies and International Relations 24-10-2024

In October 2024, just days into her presidency, Claudia Sheinbaum made headlines with a powerful and resolute call for the recognition of the State of Palestine. This bold declaration, made in light of the escalating violence in Gaza, underscores her long-standing commitment to peace in the Middle East and marks a significant moment in Mexico’s foreign policy under her leadership. Sheinbaum’s message is not only a reflection of her personal and political values but also positions Mexico as a key player in global discussions on justice, human rights, and diplomacy.

 Historical Background: Mexico’s Foreign Policy and Palestine

Mexico’s relationship with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has traditionally been one of careful diplomacy. For decades, the country has maintained a neutral stance, seeking to foster peace in the region without aligning itself too closely with either side. In her speech, Sheinbaum reiterated that Mexico has long supported the recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, aligning her position with this historical diplomatic approach. However, the intensity and clarity with which Sheinbaum delivered this message suggest a new, more assertive direction for Mexico’s involvement in Middle Eastern affairs.

This stance was especially poignant given the escalating violence in Gaza. Sheinbaum condemned the Israeli government’s actions, particularly in relation to civilian casualties, echoing the condemnation voiced by Mexico’s previous administration under Andrés Manuel López Obrador. She criticized the disproportionate use of force by Israel, particularly in response to the October 2023 attacks, and expressed concern over the potential for the conflict to spread to neighboring regions like Lebanon and Syria.

 Personal Connection and Commitment to Justice

Claudia Sheinbaum’s call for Palestinian recognition is also deeply personal. Born to Jewish parents, Sheinbaum has been open about her heritage, though she emphasizes a distant connection to religious practices. Despite this, her Jewish background has often placed her in the crosshairs of criticism, particularly from pro-Israel factions. However, her consistent advocacy for Palestinian rights is not new. In 2009, she famously condemned Israeli bombings in Gaza, describing them as the “murder of Palestinian civilians”. This alignment with Palestinian rights, despite her Jewish heritage, speaks to her broader commitment to justice and peace, rather than allegiance to religious or ethnic identity.

Sheinbaum’s values of social justice, equity, and anti-imperialism align her with other left-leaning leaders in Latin America, many of whom share a critical view of Israeli actions. Her background as a scientist and environmentalist, combined with her political ideology, further shapes her vision of a just and peaceful global order.

 Mexico’s Role Under Sheinbaum: Diplomacy and Aspirations

Sheinbaum’s presidency marks a turning point for Mexico’s foreign policy, particularly in its engagement with conflicts outside the Western Hemisphere. By calling for the recognition of Palestine, Sheinbaum positions Mexico as a proactive advocate for peace in the Middle East, joining other countries that have formally recognized Palestinian statehood.

She emphasized that mutual recognition of both Israel and Palestine is essential for any long-lasting peace in the region. In this context, Sheinbaum’s stance aligns with the increasing number of nations advocating for Palestinian sovereignty. As of mid-2024, 149 out of 193 UN member states have recognized Palestine, a number that has grown due to recent recognitions by countries such as Spain, Norway, and Armenia.

Sheinbaum’s aspiration is not just to secure peace between Israel and Palestine but to catalyze a broader international effort to resolve the conflict. She has urged the United Nations to take a more active role in peacekeeping efforts and has called for global powers to hold Israel accountable for its actions. She sees Mexico as an important voice in the international community, pushing for diplomacy and legal mechanisms to ensure accountability and justice.

 The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While Sheinbaum’s call for Palestinian recognition aligns with Mexico’s historical position, it is also likely to stir controversy both domestically and internationally. Within Mexico, she faces opposition from pro-Israel groups, particularly among the Jewish community, and from conservative political factions wary of her left-leaning foreign policies. Internationally, her stance may put Mexico at odds with Israel and its allies, including the United States, which has historically been a close partner of Mexico in various international forums.

Despite these challenges, Sheinbaum appears determined to maintain her course. Her administration is expected to continue advocating for Palestine in international forums, including the United Nations and the International Court of Justice, where Mexico has previously supported initiatives critical of Israeli policies.

Sheinbaum’s foreign policy is also intertwined with her broader vision for Mexico as a global leader in human rights, peace, and environmental sustainability. Her bold stance on Palestine is just one part of a larger strategy to position Mexico as a key player in global diplomacy, advocating for the marginalized and pushing for solutions to some of the world’s most intractable conflicts.

 Conclusion: A New Era of Mexican Diplomacy

Claudia Sheinbaum’s presidency represents a significant shift in Mexican diplomacy. Her strong stance on Palestine reflects both her personal convictions and Mexico’s evolving role on the global stage. By advocating for the recognition of a Palestinian state, Sheinbaum aims to align Mexico with a growing international consensus on Palestinian rights, while also challenging the global community to take more robust actions in pursuit of peace.

As her administration progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Sheinbaum balances domestic and international pressures, and whether her bold foreign policy initiatives will yield tangible results in the fight for a more peaceful and just world.