Colombia's president-elect has announced plans to open the nation's embassy in Jerusalem, signaling a significant shift in foreign policy aimed at restoring and strengthening ties with Israel.
Abelardo de la Espriella, who secured victory in the recent presidential runoff by a narrow margin, has pledged to intensify efforts against Colombia's armed groups, advocating for a military alliance with the United States and Israel. This move contrasts sharply with the stance of the current leftist administration under President Gustavo Petro, who severed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2024 due to its operations in the Gaza Strip.
De la Espriella, who is set to assume office on August 7 and has garnered support from former US President Donald Trump, has reiterated his commitment to re-establishing diplomatic relations. His office confirmed on Thursday the government's intention to proceed with "the opening of the Colombian Embassy in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel."
Israel claims Jerusalem, encompassing the eastern sector, as its capital, a position not universally recognized internationally, with most nations maintaining their diplomatic missions in Tel Aviv. The United States relocated its embassy to Jerusalem in 2018 during the Trump administration.
Furthermore, Colombia is expected to withdraw its support for South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which alleges genocide by Israel in Gaza. The incoming Foreign Minister, Omar Bula, met with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Saar, in Washington, where an agreement was reached on a framework to reinstate diplomatic relations and abolish visa requirements for travel.
"The historical relationship that the Petro administration unilaterally severed will be strengthened once again," stated the president-elect's office, referencing Petro's earlier decisions to support the ICJ case, halt coal and arms exports to Israel, and his unfulfilled intention to open a diplomatic mission in Ramallah.
