# Colombia-Israel diplomatic and trade normalization > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-israel-diplomatic-and-trade-normalization > Updated: 2026-09-03T12:46:41.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 2. The Colombian government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, has authorized the resumption of coal exports to Israel. This decision reverses a 2024 ban imposed by former President Gustavo Petro, which had been implemented as a protest against military actions in Gaza. Minister of Commerce Mauricio Gómez Amín characterized the previous export restriction as an ‘ideological’ measure that negatively impacted the national economy. The National Federation of Coal Producers (Fenalcarbón) reported that the suspension caused an annual loss of approximately 3.5 million tons of coal, valued at about $200 million. Despite the resumption, industry leaders cautioned that reclaiming former market shares could be challenging due to Israel’s increased reliance on natural gas and coal sourced from South Africa. The move reflects a broader diplomatic realignment, including the appointment of a new Israeli ambassador to Colombia and Colombia’s recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Former President Petro has criticized the restoration of trade and relations, stating that doing so while the conflict in Gaza continues is akin to ‘applauding a genocide.’ ## Timeline ### 2026-09-03: Colombia pursues trade recovery with Venezuela and manages economic shifts Colombia seeks to restore $7.2 billion in trade with Venezuela via new Bancóldex financing, while managing domestic economic growth, reserve accumulation, and El Niño-related water risks. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombia-central-bank-launches-us400-million-dollar-purchase-auction ### 2026-08-22: Colombia restores coal exports to Israel Colombia has restored coal exports to Israel, reversing a ban from the Petro administration. The move marks a significant diplomatic and economic shift under President Abelardo de la Espriella. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombia-resumes-coal-exports-to-israel --- Cite as: Colombia-Israel diplomatic and trade normalization. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-israel-diplomatic-and-trade-normalization