Oaxaca Government Acquires Israeli Weapons for State Police

The Oaxaca government, led by Morena party member Salomón Jara Cruz, recently acquired Israeli weapons for its state police force. The weapons, supplied by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), include 75 semi-automatic ARAD assault rifles with a 14.5-inch barrel and 5.56 caliber. The acquisition was announced by Karina Barón Ortiz, head of the Executive Secretariat of the State Public Security System (Sesesp), who stated that the purchase was requested by the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection to replace outdated equipment over 40 years old.

During a press conference held at Primavera Park, Ortiz was asked about the decision to acquire Israeli weapons amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. She emphasized that the purchase was the responsibility of the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), the only entity authorized to make such acquisitions. She noted that the procurement process involves a tender with suppliers and that the state government was notified of the bidding.

When pressed about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Mexican government’s stance on the issue, Ortiz responded that her administration supports peace. However, she did not directly address the implications of acquiring weapons from a country involved in the conflict.

IWI, based in central Israel, is known for designing, developing, and producing weapons used by the Israel Defense Forces and exported to various countries. The company’s involvement in the conflict in Gaza is part of its broader operations, which include participation in military maneuvers.

As the international community increasingly condemns the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza, more nations and organizations are calling for an end to the violence. The situation continues to evolve, with growing pressure on Israel to address the humanitarian crisis and uphold international law.

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