October 14, 2026
Colombia officially opened its embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday, becoming the 10th nation to establish a diplomatic mission in Israel’s capital, while announcing a major initiative to combat antisemitism at home.
Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar joined Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar for the October 14 inauguration, marking a dramatic reversal of the previous Colombian government’s hostile policies toward Israel.
Under former President Gustavo Petro, Colombia severed diplomatic relations with Israel in 2024 over the war in Gaza. However, newly elected President Abelardo de la Espriella restored diplomatic ties in August 2026 and has since reinstated the countries’ free trade agreement.
Speaking at the ceremony, Escobar announced that Colombia’s Foreign Ministry would coordinate with other government agencies and the country’s Jewish community to confront rising antisemitism.
“This administration and this foreign minister will not stay silent,” Escobar declared, according to JNS. “We will not let this scourge go unchecked and unchallenged across the country.”
Escobar also expressed gratitude for Israel’s humanitarian assistance following Colombia’s devastating August earthquake, which killed hundreds and injured thousands.
The embassy opening places Colombia alongside the United States and eight other countries maintaining diplomatic missions in Jerusalem, strengthening international recognition of the city as Israel’s capital.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed the decision as a historic milestone in relations between the two nations.
The diplomatic breakthrough also signals renewed cooperation in defense, intelligence, cybersecurity, technology and trade, restoring a strategic partnership that spans nearly seven decades.