Colombia president-elect agrees with Israel to restore bilateral relations

Colombia's President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has agreed with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to re-establish diplomatic ties between the two nations. The relationship had been severed in May 2024 by outgoing President Gustavo Petro, who protested Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip following the October 2023 Hamas attacks.

During a phone call, Herzog congratulated De la Espriella on his election victory. Both leaders discussed the importance of restoring diplomatic relations and strengthening historical bonds of friendship, cooperation, and understanding. De la Espriella's office stated that the future government seeks to reposition Colombia on the world stage by rebuilding relationships with strategic allies based on respect, trust, security, cooperation, and the defense of freedom.

This agreement follows a call De la Espriella had with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar a week prior. During that conversation, De la Espriella pledged that Colombia would restore and strengthen its relationship with Israel like never before, promising the nation's support as a loyal friend and firm ally. During his presidential campaign, De la Espriella had indicated his intention to re-establish bilateral ties and even move Colombia's embassy to Jerusalem, mirroring a decision made by then-U.S. President Donald Trump.