Israel and Colombia Restore Diplomatic Ties and Trade

Israel and Colombia are restoring diplomatic ties following a period of severed relations initiated in 2024 by former President Gustavo Petro, who had banned coal exports to Israel and accused the country of genocide in Gaza.

Gideon Sa'ar, the Israeli Foreign Minister, met with Colombian Vice President José Manuel Restrepo and Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar to establish concrete partnerships and expand cooperation. This diplomatic reset coincides with the August 8, 2026, inauguration of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella.

As part of the renewed relationship, Colombia has reinstated a free trade agreement and decided to move its embassy to Jerusalem. Vice President Restrepo stated that the two nations are committed to maximizing the benefits of the relationship, while Sa'ar indicated that the countries would take their ties to new heights.