Failed Coup Attempt in Bolivia
On Wednesday, the Bolivian capital, La Paz, witnessed a dramatic coup attempt as soldiers stormed the National Palace. Bolivian President Luis Arce declared that the country faced a military coup. The coup, led by General Juan José Zúñiga, aimed to overthrow the government and install a new regime. However, the coup was swiftly thwarted, and Zúñiga was arrested along with other high-ranking officers. President Arce addressed the nation, reaffirming his commitment to democracy and urging citizens to mobilize in defense of their government.
Social Media Reactions and International Implications
The failed coup in Bolivia sparked significant reactions on social media, particularly among Arab users who linked the events to Bolivia's recent severance of diplomatic ties with Israel over its actions in Gaza. Many users speculated that the coup attempt was a reaction to Bolivia's stance against Israel. The Bolivian government had previously cut all diplomatic relations with Israel, accusing it of committing crimes against humanity in Gaza. This decision was widely supported by the Bolivian populace, who took to the streets to defend their democracy during the coup attempt.
Bolivia's Foreign Ministry called on the international community to support the legitimate government. The incident also highlighted Bolivia's growing ties with Russia and its intention to join BRICS, which some analysts believe may have contributed to the coup attempt. Bolivia's significant lithium reserves and its cooperation with Russia on lithium production were seen as potential factors behind the unrest. The Bolivian Defense Minister assured citizens that the situation was under control, and an investigation into the coup attempt would proceed along both conventional and military lines.
- In a press conference, President Arce announced the arrest of General Juan José Zúñiga and other high-ranking officers involved in the coup attempt. The Bolivian Prosecutor General's Office charged Zúñiga with terrorism and armed rebellion. The new army commander, General José Wilson Sanchez, ordered all military personnel to return to their bases, and the streets of La Paz were soon filled with government supporters.
- Former President Evo Morales also called for civil mobilization and road closures to protect the government. The Bolivian Foreign Ministry urged the international community to support the legitimate authorities. The coup attempt occurred amid Bolivia's efforts to strengthen ties with Russia and join BRICS, with some analysts suggesting that these moves may have contributed to the unrest.
- Bolivia's significant lithium reserves and its cooperation with Russia on lithium production were highlighted as potential factors behind the coup attempt. The Bolivian Defense Minister assured citizens that the situation was under control and that an investigation would proceed along both conventional and military lines.
