Huge crowds of Brazilians gathered in support of right-wing presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro on Sunday, as the country votes in a tightly-contested election that could reshape ties with Israel.
Huge crowds of Brazilians took to the streets in support of right-wing presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro on Sunday, election day, according to reports from the scene. The demonstration, described as a massive show of grassroots enthusiasm, unfolded as Brazilians cast their ballots in a tightly contested race that carries significant implications for Israel and the Jewish world.
As The Zioneer reported earlier on Sunday, Bolsonaro cast his ballot in Rio de Janeiro at 20:21 Jerusalem time, and by 21:14 Jerusalem time millions of voters were reported heading to polling stations across the country, with heavy voter turnout. The pro-Bolsonaro rally marks the latest expression of momentum for the candidate as election day progresses.
The election outcome holds major stakes for Israel. As The Zioneer has previously reported, Bolsonaro has pledged to restore full diplomatic relations with Israel and move the Brazilian embassy to Jerusalem. His rival, incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has cut diplomatic ties with Israel and aligned Brazil with anti-Israel blocs during his current term.
Polling stations remain open and the final result is not yet known. The demonstration underscores the intensity of the race as the country decides its direction.
3 developments
- DevelopingNew Brazil poll shows Flavio Bolsonaro closing gap to tie with Lula ahead of October election
- StrongNetanyahu congratulates Flavio Bolsonaro on first-round victory, voices hope for Israel-Brazil ties
- DevelopingFlavio Bolsonaro to run for Brazil's presidency in right-wing bid against Lula
- DevelopingFlavio Bolsonaro vows to expand Brazil-Israel ties in interview
Source and signal
- Open-source intake