Brazil has recalled its ambassador to Israel and will not immediately appoint a replacement, a diplomatic source told AFP Wednesday, ratcheting up tensions between the two sides over Israel's war in Gaza.

The nearly eight-month-old conflict has soured Israel's diplomatic ties with several nations, including Brazil, whose President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in February accused the regime of "genocide."

Israel reacted furiously, declaring the Brazilian leader "persona non grata."

The Brazilian representation in Israel in the meantime will be led by diplomat Fabio Farias.

Lula has received support in Latin America, notably from Colombia's President Gustavo Petro who has also severed ties with Israel.

Both Brazil and Colombia have supported South Africa's complaint against Israel to the International Court of Justice in The Hague, alleging the Gaza assault amounted to a breach of the Genocide Convention.