Colombia Cuts Ties With Iran Over Terrorism and Regional Instability

Colombia has severed diplomatic relations with Iran, citing Tehran's alleged support for terrorism and its role in escalating Middle Eastern conflicts. The decision, which became effective on September 19, was officially announced by Bogota on September 24. The Colombian Foreign Ministry stated the move was made due to concerns for national and regional security, pointing to alleged links between the Iranian government and international terrorist and drug-trafficking organizations that threaten Colombia's security.

Additional reasons cited by Colombia include Iran's human rights record, attacks against non-Middle Eastern states, blockades of the Strait of Hormuz, and interference with the International Atomic Energy Agency's efforts to monitor Iran's nuclear program. The ministry declared that these combined circumstances led to a "loss of confidence" in the Iranian government. Bogota will maintain consular relations with Tehran to protect its citizens, in accordance with the Vienna Conventions.

This diplomatic break follows a warming of relations between Colombia and Israel, particularly after a change in government in Bogota. Earlier, on September 1, Peru also announced the termination of its diplomatic ties with Iran. Lima cited Iran's suppression of peaceful protests, restrictions on press freedom, discrimination against women and girls, persecution of political opponents, and the escalation of Middle Eastern conflict as reasons for its decision.