Colombia opens embassy in Jerusalem

Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar and Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa’ar officially inaugurated Colombia’s new diplomatic mission in Jerusalem. The ceremony was attended by approximately 80 guests, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The move to establish an embassy in Jerusalem serves as a de facto recognition of the city as Israel’s capital. Israeli officials described the opening as a milestone that consolidates bilateral relations and initiates a new era of strategic cooperation. This policy shift follows a period of severed ties under former President Gustavo Petro, who broke relations in May 2024 due to the conflict in Gaza. The current administration under President Abelardo de la Espriella has moved to restore these ties.

The decision has drawn criticism from the Arab and Muslim world. Foreign ministers from 19 countries issued a joint statement condemning the recognition and calling on the Colombian government to reconsider the decision in accordance with international law.