Venezuela and Israel resume consular services after 17-year diplomatic break
CARACAS, Aug 11 (Reuters) - Venezuela and Israel have agreed to re-establish consular services in each country, both governments said on Tuesday, a dramatic shift in the South American nation's geopolitical alignment after it broke ties with Israel in 2009.
Venezuela and Israel have agreed to resume consular services in each other's countries, marking a dramatic change in Venezuela's geopolitical stance following a 17-year diplomatic break. The decision comes after Israel ended relations with Venezuela in 2009 over the nation's support of Israeli attacks in Gaza. In recent years, Venezuela has aligned with Washington, distancing itself from its historic ties with Iran.
Interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed the resumption of consular services, stating that discussions among senior officials from both nations led to the agreement. The Israeli humanitarian delegation recently visited Venezuela in response to devastating earthquakes, triggering talks between the governments. Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining the relationship between Israel and Venezuela's Jewish community, which holds historical significance between the two nations.
Iran, Venezuela's ally, historically supported the South American nation amid U.S. sanctions. The restoration of consular services follows the U.S.'s recent intervention in Caracas, which further strained Venezuela's diplomatic relations.
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