Colombia's president-elect to restore ties with Israel, move embassy to Jerusalem

Colombia's president-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has announced the restoration of diplomatic relations with Israel, including moving the Colombian embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, eliminating visa requirements, and withdrawing from the South Africa-led genocide case at the International Court of Justice. Source: AP News, Portafolio

What was agreed

The agreement, reached between incoming Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar in Washington, includes the immediate exchange of ambassadors, reciprocal visa elimination, and "the opening of the Colombian Embassy in Jerusalem, capital of Israel." Source: El Colombiano, La República De la Espriella stated that "the historical relationship that the Petro government unilaterally broke will be strengthened again." Source: Infobae

Controversy and opposition

Outgoing President Gustavo Petro vehemently opposed the move, calling it "a maximum rudeness to all Islamic peoples" and warning that "he who supports a genocide will be a genocidaire in his own country." Source: Portafolio, Infobae The Organization of Islamic Cooperation also condemned the plan as a "flagrant violation of UN resolutions." Source: El Colombiano The transition has been tense, with Petro disputing De la Espriella's victory. Source: AP News

Broader implications

The decision reverses Petro's 2024 break with Israel over the Gaza war. De la Espriella, backed by Donald Trump, aims to re-establish security and trade ties. Source: El País Colombia will also withdraw its support from the South African ICJ case against Israel.