Israel Sends 5 Tons of Medical Aid to Colombia After Devastating Earthquake

On August 10, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck near San José del Palmar in Colombia's Chocó region, one of the country's poorest and most isolated areas. The quake, the strongest recorded in Colombia this century, caused widespread destruction in western cities including Cali, Pereira, and Manizales, damaging nearly 5,000 homes and destroying hundreds of buildings, schools, and medical centers. Several airports were temporarily closed for safety inspections.

In response, Israel has been actively providing humanitarian aid to Colombia. About two weeks ago, Israel dispatched a joint rescue and aid mission involving the Foreign Ministry, the IDF, and the Ministry of Defense to assist in locating survivors amid the rubble. On August 14, Israeli Ambassador to Colombia Vivian Eisen and Colombian Vice President José Manuel Restrepo Abondano, along with his wife, officially received a new Israeli aid plane carrying approximately five tons of medical equipment to support emergency response efforts.

This latest shipment, coordinated under the guidance of Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Health, underscores Israel's ongoing commitment to humanitarian assistance and saving lives in Colombia during this crisis. Israeli officials emphasized the continued partnership between the two countries in addressing the disaster's aftermath.

The earthquake's impact was felt beyond Colombia, reaching Panama, Ecuador, and Venezuela, though no significant damage was reported in those neighboring countries. The scale of destruction in Colombia has prompted international aid efforts, with Israel playing a key role in delivering critical medical supplies and rescue support.