Colombia Opens Embassy in Jerusalem and Commits to Combating Antisemitism

Colombia officially inaugurated its embassy in Jerusalem on October 14, becoming the tenth nation to establish a diplomatic mission in the city. The ceremony, attended by Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, marks a significant shift in bilateral relations following the restoration of diplomatic ties by President Abelardo de la Espriella in August 2026. Under the previous administration, Colombia had severed relations with Israel in 2024.

During the inauguration, Minister Escobar announced a new government initiative aimed at addressing rising antisemitism within Colombia. He stated that the Foreign Ministry would collaborate with local Jewish community leaders and other agencies to confront the issue. The move also signals a broader renewal of cooperation between the two nations, encompassing trade, defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity.

Minister Sa’ar characterized the embassy opening as a historic milestone for the two countries. The diplomatic shift follows a period of renewed engagement, which included Israeli humanitarian aid provided to Colombia after a major earthquake in August 2026 that resulted in significant casualties.