Venezuela and Israel restore consular ties after 17-year break

Venezuela and Israel announced on August 11, 2026, a significant restoration of consular relations, marking a major shift in geopolitical alignment after a 17-year diplomatic rupture. The agreement was revealed by both governments following recent talks between senior officials.

The decision comes in the wake of deadly twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, killing over 6,000 people. Israel deployed a humanitarian delegation to assist with emergency response and recovery efforts. According to joint statements, this cooperation formed the basis for renewed dialogue. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia González stated the agreement includes continuing bilateral technical cooperation derived from the earthquake response and establishing a mechanism for consular services to citizens in both countries. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar engaged in discussions with his counterpart to finalize the arrangement.

Venezuela and Bolivia severed diplomatic ties with Israel in January 2009 following an Israeli military offensive in the Gaza Strip. Under former President Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela maintained a strong alliance with Iran and was consistently opposed to...