Israel and Venezuela Restore Consular Ties Following Maduro's Fall and Earthquake Aid

Following the fall and capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro by the United States, and Israel's humanitarian aid after a devastating earthquake in Venezuela, the two countries announced the renewal of their consular relations. The joint statement released on the evening of the announcement highlighted that after the visit of the Israeli humanitarian delegation to Venezuela following the double earthquake on June 24, and subsequent talks between senior officials, both nations agreed to continue bilateral technical cooperation related to emergency response and reconstruction efforts. They also agreed to establish a coordination mechanism to provide consular services to their citizens residing in each other's countries as needed.

The statement emphasized the importance of the relationship between Israel and the Jewish community in Venezuela, describing it as a historic bridge of friendship. The Israeli aid mission, which was the longest in the history of the Home Front Command, included about 32 experts who remained active on the ground long after most international teams had left. The mission commander, retired Brigadier General Yossi Pinto, reported from the heavily damaged La Guaira area near Caracas that hundreds of buildings were destroyed and the situation was complex and extensive.

The Israeli delegation focused on helping local authorities transition from immediate emergency response to long-term recovery, sharing expertise and assisting in national situational assessments, decision-making processes, and prioritization for reconstruction. Pinto noted that this phase would last months or even years, aiming to equip Venezuelan officials with the best professional tools to face the challenges ahead.

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, caused widespread destruction in La Guaira state, resulting in at least 3,342 deaths, 16,740 injuries, and leaving approximately 17,345 people homeless. Pinto stressed the close cooperation with Venezuelan authorities, who have been receptive to Israeli recommendations, and highlighted the significance of Israel’s ongoing presence after other international teams departed.