The announcement from Bolivian President Evo Morales that his nation is breaking diplomatic relations with Israel is a troubling development in the region. Morales is following the lead of his close ally, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who recently expelled Israel’s ambassador in Caracas.

Making a clearly incomplete analysis of the conflict and without even mentioning Hamas’ years of terrorist attacks against Israel, the Bolivian president announced his decision by calling Israel a “genocidal” state.

It is noteworthy that this announcement was made a day after Morales met with an Iranian delegation headed by Iranian Minister of Cooperation Mohammad Abbasi. Iran has been trying to expand its influence in Latin America for years, and this episode only underscores Morales’ willingness to cooperate with the Iranian government that sponsors terror worldwide and has one of the worst human rights records in the world.

Bolivia has enjoyed excellent relations with Israel for many years. The two countries have several cooperative programs and about 10,000 Israeli tourists visit Bolivia every year. Morales’ decision to follow Chavez’s irresponsible move is disappointing and worrisome.