Colombia opens embassy in Jerusalem, restores free trade deal with Israel

The Colombian government has announced the opening of its embassy in Jerusalem, marking the country as the tenth nation to establish such a presence. This move comes as the new President Abelardo de la Espriella has reversed his predecessor's policy of breaking diplomatic ties with Israel. Additionally, the restoration of a free trade agreement between Colombia and Israel has been confirmed.

Most countries continue to maintain their embassies for Israel in Tel Aviv, but Israel views Jerusalem as its capital, while Palestinians consider East Jerusalem to be the capital of their future independent state. The significance of Jerusalem's status remains one of the most contentious issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Former President Gustavo Petro broke diplomatic relations with Israel in May 2024 over its actions in Gaza and criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He closed Colombia's embassy in Tel Aviv and recalled its ambassador, an action that Israel deemed antisemitic and a reward for Hamas. De la Espriella, a right-wing president, assumed office in August.

On Tuesday, the terminated free trade agreement was reinstated. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed his gratitude, stating that in just two months, they have rectified most of the adverse consequences of the Petro administration for Israel-Colombia relations and even achieved new milestones. Saar praised de la Espriella's determination to elevate the relationship to unprecedented heights.

Colombian Minister of Foreign Affairs Omar Bula Escobar attended the embassy opening in Jerusalem. Several nations have relocated their embassies to Jerusalem following the United States' lead in 2018, including Guatemala, Honduras, Paraguay, and Somaliland.