The U.S. State Department revoked Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s visa last year. The decision came after his attendance at a pro-Palestinian rally in Manhattan. President Petro had planned to participate in a forum organized by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, but the meeting was canceled.

U.S. diplomats informed Colombia’s government that this meeting could breach the limitations placed on Mr. Petro’s entry to the United States. He was only allowed to attend a United Nations Security Council Meeting, according to Colombian and American officials.

Colombian officials complied with the cancellation. The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá contacted Colombia’s foreign ministry to communicate the issue. Generally, foreign leaders hold visas allowing unrestricted U.S. access, but Mr. Petro’s visa was rescinded after his controversial actions.

During the September rally in Manhattan, Mr. Petro criticized U.S. backing of Israel in Gaza. He even urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders. This incident escalated existing tensions between Mr. Petro, a proclaimed leftist, and the Trump administration.

The Mayor’s Office in New York City did not provide immediate comments. In a statement, the State Department emphasized that holding a visa is a privilege. They warned that any U.S. visa might be revoked if the holder incites military disobedience against the U.S. President.

Despite attempts by President Trump to establish common ground, Mr. Petro’s actions continue to be problematic.