Diplomacy: Israel gains new allies in Latin America

Israel has secured new allies in Latin America, with both Venezuela and Colombia signaling a shift in their diplomatic relations after years of estrangement. The developments mark a notable evolution in regional dynamics, particularly following recent political changes in several South American nations. In Venezuela, the government under President Nicolás Maduro announced plans to restore limited consular services for its citizens in Israel, a move that had been unthinkable just months ago. Meanwhile, Colombia’s newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has reversed his predecessor’s decision to sever ties with Israel and has even declared intentions to relocate the Colombian embassy to Jerusalem while recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, a disputed territory occupied since 1967. The restoration of limited consular services between Venezuela and Israel follows a period of complete diplomatic disengagement dating back to 2009, when former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez expelled Israel's ambassador in protest against Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip. This latest step represents a symbolic thaw in relations, though it does not imply a return to full diplomatic recognition. For Israel, the gesture signifies a potential opening for renewed engagement with a country long aligned with anti-Israel policies. In Colombia, the change is more dramatic. Under the previous administration led by Gustavo Petro, the country had cut diplomatic ties with Israel in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, the new government under de la Espriella has not only restored these relations but has taken further steps by announcing the relocation of its embassy to Jerusalem. Additionally, Colombia has formally recognized Israel’s claim to sovereignty over the Golan Heights, a move that contradicts international consensus, including positions held by Germany and the United Nations. Analysts suggest this shift reflects broader trends in Latin America, where right-wing governments have increasingly aligned themselves with Israel. According to Isaac Caro, a professor at the Universidad Alberto Hurtado in Chile, there is a growing tendency among Latin American countries to draw closer to Israel in response to the rise of radical right-wing movements in the region. This trend is linked to a realignment of foreign policy toward the United States, which has historically supported Israel. Daniel Wajner, an associate professor of International Relations at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, describes this movement as part of a larger wave of pro-Israel sentiment sweeping through the continent. He points to leaders such as Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro, El Salvador's Nayib Bukele, and Argentina's Javier Milei as key figures driving this shift. Wajner notes that when combined with populist rhetoric, this alignment becomes more pronounced, leading to what he calls a "hug" rather than mere proximity to Israel. In Argentina, the transformation is particularly evident. President Javier Milei has made his close relationship with Israel a central component of his foreign policy and personal identity. According to Caro, this bond has become a defining feature of the radical right in the region, tied to narratives of belonging to a Western, Jewish-Christian civilization. While motivations vary across countries, common factors include ideological, religious, and strategic considerations. Closer ties with Israel serve not only to align with U.S. foreign policy preferences but also to signal a clear international orientation. In Colombia, the reversal of policy under de la Espriella highlights the extent of the pendulum swing from left-leaning positions under Petro to a more conservative stance. The recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights underscores how far this shift extends. In Venezuela, the situation differs slightly. While the regime itself has not undergone a political transformation, its international posture has shifted due to increased alignment with the United States beginning in early 2026. The resumption of consular services holds significant symbolic value, indicating a potential thaw in relations despite continued tensions over other issues. For Israel, the return of limited diplomatic contact with Venezuela could represent a new chapter in its efforts to expand influence across Latin America.