Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombia's incoming foreign minister, Omar Bula Escobar (Shmulik Almany/Israel MFA)
Israel and Colombia have agreed to fully restore diplomatic and economic relations, marking a dramatic reversal after more than two years of tensions under outgoing Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
During a meeting in Washington, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Colombia’s incoming foreign minister, Omar Bula Escobar, agreed to exchange ambassadors, lift visa requirements and expand Israeli development assistance. Bula also told Sa’ar that Colombia intends to open an embassy in Jerusalem, a significant diplomatic step recognizing the city as Israel’s capital.
The breakthrough follows the election of President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella, who pledged to rebuild ties with Israel after Petro severed relations in 2024 over the war against Hamas terrorists in Gaza. De la Espriella has vowed to strengthen cooperation with both Israel and the United States, with the new Colombian government set to take office on August 7.
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