Peruvian President Jose Maria Balcazar sparked outrage on Tuesday during a ceremony for the 138th anniversary of the Chamber of Commerce, claiming that Jews were partly responsible for βpushingβ Germany into war. The remarks were made in a speech that has drawn widespread condemnation.
Balcazar stated, without providing evidence, that Jewish influence contributed to Germany's decision to enter conflict. The comments were immediately criticized by Jewish organizations and human rights groups, who called them antisemitic and historically inaccurate.
As of May 1, 2026, no official response from the German government or international bodies has been reported. The Peruvian presidency has not issued a clarification or apology.
