Venezuela, Israel Restore Consular Services After 17 Years
The two countries have agreed to re-establish consular services, marking a significant shift in Venezuela's geopolitical alignment after a 17-year diplomatic break, following Israel's aid to Venezuela after recent earthquakes
Venezuela and Israel have agreed to restore consular services after a 17-year diplomatic break. The agreement comes after Israel sent an aid and disaster response delegation to Venezuela in June following devastating twin earthquakes.
The diplomatic break between the two countries began in 2009 when Venezuela broke diplomatic ties with Israel over Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip. However, the recent agreement marks a significant shift in Venezuela's geopolitical alignment, with the country strengthening ties with Israel and the US under interim President Delcy Rodriguez.
The agreement to restore consular services was made after talks between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Venezuelan Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia. The two countries have not maintained diplomatic relations since 2009, but the new agreement will establish a coordination mechanism to enable the provision of consular services to citizens of both countries.
## What changed The change in Venezuela's government, following the US capture of President Nicolas Maduro in January, has led to a shift in its relations with Israel and the US. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez is now leading Venezuela's government, and the country has strengthened ties with Israel-allied Washington.
## Why it matters The agreement to restore consular services is seen as a significant shift in Venezuela's geopolitical alignment. Venezuela has historically been aligned with Iran, but the new agreement marks a move away from this alignment and towards a stronger relationship with Israel and the US. The move is also significant for the Jewish community in Venezuela, which constitutes an important historic bridge of friendship between the two countries.
The establishment of consular services will enable citizens of both countries to access essential services, such as passport renewal and emergency assistance. The agreement is a positive step towards improving relations between the two countries, and it is likely to have a significant impact on the region's geopolitical landscape.
