South American country sharply changes course toward Israel
Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office on August 7, intends to restore relations with Israel after the crisis under Gustavo Petro. At the inauguration ceremony, a rabbi blessed the president and vice president, wishing peace to both countries. De la Espriella has already held talks with Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and President Isaac Herzog, stating his desire to strengthen cooperation.
A sharp turn in Israel-Colombia relations has emerged following the inauguration of new President Abelardo de la Espriella. One of the first symbolic events after his inauguration was a ceremony with the participation of representatives of the country's Jewish community. During the ceremony, a rabbi pronounced a blessing for the president, Vice President José Manuel Restrepo, and their families. A separate part of the prayer was dedicated to the future of the two states, expressing a wish for peace and security for Colombia and Israel. Thus, the ceremony took on special significance amid the expected restoration of relations between the two countries. Abelardo de la Espriella won the second round of the presidential elections on June 21 and officially took office on August 7. The 48-year-old lawyer and entrepreneur had not previously held elected public office. The new head of state succeeded Gustavo Petro, under whom relations with Israel experienced a deep crisis. In May 2024, Colombia severed diplomatic relations with the Jewish state. However, even before the inauguration, de la Espriella made it clear that he intended to abandon his predecessor's policies. After winning the election, he held a phone conversation with Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. The future president then stated his intention not only to restore relations with Israel but also to significantly strengthen them. According to him, the Jewish state could count on Colombia as a reliable ally. The next signal was a conversation between de la Espriella and Israeli President Isaac Herzog in early July. The parties discussed the return of full diplomatic relations and the expansion of cooperation.