Netanyahu Praises Israeli Mission in Venezuela for Rebuilding Efforts and Restoring Ties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Colonel Elad Edri, commander of the Israeli delegation in Venezuela, and Yoed Magen, Israel's designated ambassador to Mexico, commending their work in the South American country. The delegation has been operating in Venezuela for ten days following a devastating earthquake, assisting in assessing damaged buildings, classifying them, and advancing reconstruction efforts. Working closely with Venezuela's Ministry of Infrastructure, the team developed a national rehabilitation plan that was presented to and approved by Venezuela's acting president.

Netanyahu highlighted the dual significance of the mission, stating, "You are both rebuilding ruins and restoring relations." He emphasized that despite Venezuela severing diplomatic ties nearly two decades ago, Israel's delegation demonstrated the benefits of maintaining connections by focusing solely on humanitarian aid without political conditions. Netanyahu praised the delegation's expertise, noting Israel's extensive experience in dealing with destruction from missile attacks, and saluted their diplomatic and human engagement efforts.

Colonel Edri explained that the mission began as a technical assessment of structures but quickly evolved into a comprehensive national plan to remove debris and restore normalcy. The delegation includes over thirty personnel from the Foreign Ministry, Home Front Command, and other IDF units, working closely with local authorities and the Jewish community in Venezuela. Edri expressed pride in representing Israel and gratitude for the warm reception from both officials and the Venezuelan public. He and Ambassador Magen affirmed their commitment to completing this vital mission on behalf of Israel.