Israeli Medical Delegation Provides Care in Panama City, Strengthening Bilateral Ties
A senior medical delegation from Tel Aviv's Ichilov Hospital arrived this week in the El Chorrillo neighborhood of Panama City to offer healthcare services at the local health center. The initiative, led by Israeli Ambassador Mati Cohen in cooperation with Ichilov-Aid, Panama's Ministry of Health, and the First Lady's office, treated approximately 200 patients daily during their week-long mission. The team also donated medical equipment and 200 pairs of eyeglasses to local residents.
Alongside the medical team, a separate group of 28 young Israeli volunteers from the organization "Warriors Without Borders" has been working for two weeks in Panama, renovating schools and teaching basic skills to children in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Both delegations received significant media attention and visits from high-ranking officials, including Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martínez Acea and Health Minister, highlighting the initiative's importance in the country's public agenda.
Ambassador Cohen emphasized that the mission symbolizes the deep friendship between Israel and Panama, stating, "The best diplomacy is built on empathy, solidarity, and direct service to people." Panama is the only Latin American country that does not recognize a Palestinian state, reflecting its unique and warm relations with Israel. This relationship was further reinforced by President Isaac Herzog's historic visit to Panama and Costa Rica in May 2026, the first official visit by an Israeli president to Central America.
The Israeli delegation worked closely with Panamanian doctors to exchange medical knowledge and improve local healthcare practices, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the mission. The First Lady's office also contributed two mobile medical units equipped for mammograms, hearing tests, and preventive care, expanding the reach of medical services.
A touching moment occurred when Dr. Ronit Almog, head of the medical mission, reunited with her son Ido, a paramedic volunteering with "Warriors Without Borders," marking their first meeting in nearly six months as they worked side by side to serve the Panama City community. The vibrant Jewish community of about 15,000 in Panama continues to serve as a vital bridge between the two nations, contributing to economic, social, and cultural life in the country.
