Colombia announces it will move embassy to Jerusalem, restore ties with Israel

The announcement marks a significant shift in South American diplomacy and a major victory for Israeli foreign policy in the region. According to reports by Israel Hayom on Friday night, the new Colombian administration has committed to strengthening ties that were severely strained under former President Gustavo Petro.

A New Diplomatic Era

The decision to move the embassy to Jerusalem follows a series of pledges made by President Abelardo de la Espriella during his campaign and transition period. As The Zioneer reported earlier, de la Espriella had previously signaled his intent to close the Palestinian embassy in Bogotá and prioritize the alliance with Israel immediately upon his August 7 inauguration. This policy shift represents a sharp departure from the anti-Israel stance of the Petro administration, which had severed ties in June 2024.

Strategic Context and Regional Impact

The restoration of relations includes the reinstatement of diplomatic and trade frameworks. Earlier today, Colombian Vice President José Manuel Restrepo met with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, describing 2026 as a "new dawn" for bilateral relations. The move aligns Colombia with other regional leaders, such as Argentina's Javier Milei, who have sought closer security and political cooperation with Jerusalem.

While the timeline for the physical relocation of the embassy remains developing, the formal declaration underscores the new administration's commitment to recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Israeli officials have already begun the process of restoring a permanent diplomatic presence in Bogotá, including the publication of a tender for a new ambassador.