BUENOS AIRES, July 20, 2025 (WAFA) – In commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day, the Palestinian Embassy in Argentina, in cooperation with the Embassy of South Africa, organized a cultural and political event in Buenos Aires, featuring the opening of “Paintings for Palestine” — an art exhibition by American artist and activist Brian Carlson.
The exhibition showcases Carlson’s powerful visual depictions of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, which has persisted for over 21 months. His works aim to raise awareness and confront the international community with the harrowing reality of the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the besieged territory.
The event began with a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs in Gaza, followed by poetry readings on Palestine’s struggle for freedom, and video tributes to anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela and American activist Rachel Corrie, who was killed by Israeli forces in Rafah in 2003.
The event drew wide participation from Arab and foreign ambassadors, artists, cultural figures, human rights activists, parliamentarians, representatives of political parties supportive of the Palestinian cause, as well as members of the Palestinian and Arab communities and Argentine citizens expressing solidarity.
In his speech, Acting Head of Mission, Senior Counselor Riyad Al-Halabi, emphasized that the exhibition is not merely an artistic event but a profound act of solidarity carrying a deeply human message. He described Carlson’s works as a “visual outcry” exposing atrocities and bearing witness to the truth.
Al-Halabi detailed the scale of destruction in Gaza, stressing the systematic targeting of civilians, infrastructure, hospitals, schools, and places of worship. He cited the destruction of the Holy Family Church in Gaza, where several people were killed and its Argentine priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli, was wounded. He also spoke of the use of starvation and water deprivation as weapons of war, underscoring that what is occurring is a complete act of genocide.
The speech also addressed ongoing violations by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and Jerusalem, including forced displacement, arson, and home demolitions in areas such as Jenin, Tulkarm, Nour Shams, Masafer Yatta, and Solomon’s Pools. Al-Halabi stressed that these actions constitute military occupation and apartheid, in direct violation of international law
South African Ambassador Zanele Makina reaffirmed her country’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people, quoting Mandela’s famous words: “South Africa’s freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinian people.” She reiterated South Africa’s commitment to holding Israel accountable on international platforms.
Artist Brian Carlson spoke about his journey, which began in October 2023, explaining that his artwork is dedicated to documenting the crimes against the Palestinian people. He sees art as a vital tool in resisting media distortion and in advocating for justice and truth.
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