The diplomatic rift between Mexico and Ecuador persists days after the raid on the Mexican embassy in the Ecuadorian capital, San Francisco de Quito. Ecuadorian police stormed the embassy last Friday to arrest Jorge Glas, a former vice president facing corruption charges. Glas had sought refuge in the embassy after being granted asylum by Mexico.
Mexico reacted swiftly and decisively, severing diplomatic relations with Ecuador. They denounced the raid as a blatant violation of international law, specifically the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. This treaty guarantees the inviolability of embassies, treating them as the sovereign territory of the nation they represent.
The incident has caused a stir in the international community as world leaders and international organizations express outrage.
The United States, through State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, denounced the act. Miller emphasized that violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations is unacceptable. The Convention guarantees the sanctity of diplomatic missions. He urged both nations involved to find a peaceful resolution.
Honduran President Xiomara Castro condemned the raid in a social media post, calling it a blatant disregard for international norms. She highlighted the violation of Mexico’s sovereignty and international law, particularly the right to asylum, which may have been a factor in the raid.
Moreso, the Organization of American States (OAS) issued a statement reminding member states, including Ecuador and Mexico, of their responsibility to uphold international obligations over domestic laws.
Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard announced on Friday that Mexico would be taking the case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to hold Ecuador accountable for this violation. Additionally, Mexico has recalled its diplomatic staff from Ecuador.
This incident has sparked a diplomatic crisis between Ecuador and Mexico. The international community is urging both sides to respect international law and find a diplomatic solution.
Concerns are mounting regarding the increasingly authoritarian tactics employed by Ecuadorian President Noboa. Some analysts believe his decision to raid the embassy reflects a willingness to bypass established legal procedures to tackle crime and potentially enhance his approval ratings ahead of the upcoming elections.
While the situation remains unresolved, Mexico has vowed to take the matter to the International Court of Justice, seeking to hold Ecuador accountable for its actions. Meanwhile, Glas’ lawyer expressed fear for his client’s safety due to Ecuador’s history of violence within its detention facilities.
