Colombia's incoming administration has agreed to restore diplomatic and economic relations with the Israeli occupation regime ahead of President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella's inauguration, reversing the policy adopted by the outgoing government, which severed ties in 2024 over the genocide in Gaza.

Weeks before taking office on Aug. 7, Foreign Minister-designate Omar Bula Escobar met with Israeli occupation regime Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in Washington.

Following the meeting, both sides announced an agreement to fully restore diplomatic and economic relations, including the exchange of ambassadors.

Colombian officials also indicated that opening an embassy in occupied Jerusalem is under consideration.

Throughout his election campaign, de la Espriella criticized Petro's Middle East policy and pledged to rebuild and strengthen Colombia's ties with the Israeli regime if elected.

Outgoing President Gustavo Petro cut diplomatic relations with the Israeli regime on May 3, 2024, citing its military campaign and genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza. His administration later introduced a series of economic measures against the regime.

The 47-year-old lawyer and businessman is widely regarded as being politically close to US President Donald Trump.

His administration is expected to place greater emphasis on strengthening relations with Washington while expanding political, diplomatic and economic cooperation with the Israeli regime, marking a significant shift in Colombia's foreign policy after the change in government. (ILKHA)