Venezuela and Israel Agree to Resume Consular Services

Venezuela and Israel have agreed to resume consular services in each other’s countries. Both governments announced this on Tuesday. This marks a significant shift in bilateral relations after Caracas severed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2009.

At the time, Venezuela cited Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip as the reason for its decision. Its geopolitical orientation, however, has shifted significantly in recent months. Since the US captured President Nicolas Maduro in January, Venezuela, now led by interim President Delcy Rodriguez, has strengthened ties with Washington.

An Israeli humanitarian delegation visited Venezuela following deadly earthquakes in June. Subsequent discussions between senior officials from both countries led to the agreement to resume consular services.

In a joint statement, the two governments also highlighted the importance of Venezuela’s Jewish community, describing it as a historic bridge of friendship between the two countries.

Iran, meanwhile, has been a key Venezuelan ally for years. As major oil producers, both countries have faced years of US sanctions, while Tehran also condemned the US intervention in Caracas in January.

(Reuters, mja)