Israel and Colombia Restore Diplomatic Ties with Embassy Planned in Jerusalem

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar met with Colombia's incoming Foreign Minister Omar Bola Escobar in Washington to agree on restoring full diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. This restoration is set to take effect immediately after the inauguration of Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, on August 7. Both ministers committed to appointing ambassadors promptly and agreed on mutual visa waivers to facilitate travel.

Bola Escobar announced his government's intention to open a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem, Israel's capital, a move supported by Sa'ar, who pledged full assistance from his ministry to implement it swiftly. The meeting also covered various bilateral issues to strengthen cooperation.

This diplomatic renewal follows a disruption caused by outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro in May 2024, which led to the withdrawal of Israel's ambassador from Bogotá and the departure of Colombia's ambassador from Israel by the end of June 2024. Israel is preparing to appoint a new ambassador to Colombia, with the selection expected to be finalized by July 20. Colombia has historically been a close ally of Israel in Latin America, and both sides aim to restore and elevate their relationship after the presidential transition.