Israeli Aid Mission Expands Efforts to Rebuild Venezuela After Earthquake

The Israeli aid mission in Venezuela is broadening its activities following a devastating earthquake. At the request of the Venezuelan government, Israel is now assisting in developing a national recovery plan for the damaged areas. Alongside dozens of personnel working on the ground, an additional team of about 20 experts is operating from Israel to analyze the situation and help formulate the plan.

The mission, comprising around 30 specialists in engineering and emergency management from the Foreign Ministry, Home Front Command, and National Emergency Authority, is collaborating closely with local authorities to assess and map damaged buildings. Their work aims to facilitate the safe return of displaced residents by identifying structures for repair or demolition.

A comprehensive long-term rehabilitation plan has been prepared in coordination with Venezuela's Ministry of Infrastructure. It includes categorizing nearly 1,300 buildings for restoration or demolition, removing debris, and preparing cleared sites for new construction. This plan was presented to Venezuela's Minister of Infrastructure and is scheduled to be presented to the acting president for approval and implementation.

In addition to on-site efforts, Israeli Home Front Command personnel are providing theoretical and practical training to local engineers and professionals on building assessment, risk evaluation, and recovery processes. This mission marks the first Israeli delegation to Venezuela since 2009.

The aid operation has received significant recognition from Venezuelan officials, including the acting president and senior government members, as well as local media. Besides its primary focus on earthquake recovery, the mission also emphasizes strengthening ties with the local Jewish community. As of the latest reports, the death toll from the earthquake nears 3,000, with expectations of higher numbers.