A dramatic shift in diplomatic relations has been recorded between Israel and Colombia, following the inauguration of the new president, Abelardo de la Espriella. According to reports from ynet, the two countries have agreed to resume the mutual visa exemption for tourists, effective September 1. This decision marks the end of a prolonged period of diplomatic tension that lasted over two years during the term of the previous president, Gustavo Petro.
The decision regarding the visa waiver is part of a broader set of policy measures formulated during talks between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and his Colombian counterpart, Omar Bola Escobar. Within these discussions, it was agreed to restore full diplomatic relations, including the immediate appointment of ambassadors and a strategic decision to relocate the Colombian embassy to Jerusalem. Additionally, the measures include the resumption of Colombian coal exports to Israel, a step of economic significance.
In the legal and international arena, Colombia has chosen to withdraw from the case filed by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and to exit the 'Hague Group.' Concurrently, it was reported that Colombia has taken a significant declarative step by announcing its official recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Alongside the political developments, humanitarian cooperation continues: a search and rescue mission from the Israeli Foreign Ministry and the Home Front Command is currently active in Colombia following a recent earthquake, aiming to assist local authorities in rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Regarding the priorities of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Minister Gideon Sa'ar has declared 2026 the 'Year of Latin America.' This policy aims to deepen and strengthen economic, tourism, and diplomatic ties with countries in the region. Recent developments with Colombia are seen as a tangible expression of this initiative, intended to expand Israel's diplomatic reach beyond the Middle East by forming new strategic partnerships. Ahead of the visa waiver implementation, Israeli travelers are advised to check the official Foreign Ministry publications for current entry requirements.