Colombia to open Jerusalem embassy in major policy shift toward Israel

Colombia to open Jerusalem embassy in major policy shift toward Israel
Reuters

Colombia's President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has announced plans to open an embassy in Jerusalem and withdraw the country's intervention in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) case brought by South Africa against Israel, signalling a major shift in Bogotá's foreign policy.

In a statement released by his office, De la Espriella said the move was part of efforts to restore what he described as Colombia's "historic alliance" with Israel.

The statement also confirmed that the incoming administration intends to withdraw Colombia's intervention in the case before the ICJ. South Africa's lawsuit accuses Israel of violating the Genocide Convention through its military campaign in the Gaza Strip. Israel has strongly denied the allegations.

A shift in policy on Israel

De la Espriella, the far-right leader of the Defenders of the Homeland party, is set to take office on 7 August, when he will succeed outgoing President Gustavo Petro.

Petro, a left-wing leader and outspoken critic of Israel's actions in Gaza, significantly downgraded relations with Israel during his presidency and voiced support for international legal efforts targeting the Israeli government.

The announcement marks one of De la Espriella's first major foreign policy commitments since his election and points to a substantial realignment of Colombia's diplomatic stance in the Middle East.

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