Hondurasgate scandal alleges ex-president Hernández and foreign actors plotted to destabilize Latin American governments

A leaked set of audio recordings, dubbed “Hondurasgate,” claims that a network involving former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, actors from the United States, Israel, Argentina and regional conservative groups sought to destabilise progressive administrations in Mexico and Colombia. The tapes suggest financial links, citing a $350,000 contribution allegedly from Argentine president Javier Milei and requests for $150,000 to set up a communication hub in the U.S.

The authenticity of the recordings has not been independently verified. The publishers, Diario Red and Hondurasgate.ch, say the files passed a Phonexia voice‑inspection test and were not AI‑generated, while Deutsche Welle notes the lack of independent confirmation. Colombian president Gustavo Petro posted on X, “This is how the extreme‑right communication networks move. The money comes from cocaine and Israel,” and Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum blamed an “international right” but denied any damage. Hernández denied involvement, stating “Clearly it’s not my voice.” Regional politicians have called the tapes either fabricated or a serious indication of foreign‑backed disinformation, prompting a debate over democratic sovereignty in Latin America.