Nauru Opens Embassy in Jerusalem, Becomes Ninth Nation to Do So

The Republic of Nauru officially opened its embassy in Jerusalem on Monday, September 7, 2026. The ceremony was attended by Nauru's Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lionel Rouwen Engimea. Nauru is now the ninth country to establish a diplomatic mission in Israel's capital, signifying the strong ties between the two nations and Nauru's commitment to strengthening them.

Israeli Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar praised Nauru's consistent support, stating, "Nauru is one of Israel's most loyal and reliable friends on the international stage. You have recognized what is an obvious truth for all of us: Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. You have consistently supported us at the UN. And when Israel faced a political campaign at the International Court of Justice, Nauru stood with Israel and with the truth."

Vice President Engimea explained that the decision to move the embassy to Jerusalem followed a conversation with Minister Saar on Fiji. He emphasized Nauru's motto, "God first," and stated that Israel holds a special place in their hearts, believing that supporting Israel brings divine blessings. Engimea also highlighted Nauru's support for Israel at the UN, noting that Nauru votes with Israel 71% of the time, compared to the United States at 93% and the Federated States of Micronesia at 88%. He expressed confidence that Nauru's support for Israel would increase.

Previously, the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Kosovo, Paraguay, Somaliland, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji had opened embassies in Jerusalem. Additionally, Colombia and the Democratic Republic of Congo have recently announced their intentions to relocate their embassies to the Israeli capital.