Story perspectives

Colombia to Open Jerusalem Embassy, Restore Israel Ties

7/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Colombia will be the ninth country to open an embassy in Jerusalem under President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella.
The government will withdraw Colombia’s intervention in South Africa’s case against Israel at International Court of Justice.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar agreed in Washington to restore relations on August 7.
The deal includes an ambassador exchange and removes visa requirements, reversing President Gustavo Petro’s May 2024 rupture.

History

Historical Context

President Donald Trump’s 2018 decision to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem formally recognized the city as Israel’s capital, prompting 36 nations to announce similar plans. In August 2024, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar agreed to open a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem, extending the diplomatic shift.

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Story summary

Colombia will be the ninth country to open an embassy in Jerusalem under President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella.
The government will withdraw Colombia’s intervention in South Africa’s case against Israel at International Court of Justice.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar agreed in Washington to restore relations on August 7.
The deal includes an ambassador exchange and removes visa requirements, reversing President Gustavo Petro’s May 2024 rupture.

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