A noticeable shift is underway in Latin America, as several governments adopt a more supportive stance toward Israel, strengthening diplomatic, security, and economic ties and signaling a broader realignment in regional politics.
According to Amir Ofek, deputy director for Latin America at Israel’s Foreign Ministry, Israel has recently accelerated its engagement across the region, responding quickly to political changes after years of difficult relations with hostile governments. Speaking to Israel’s Channel 12, Ofek said these efforts are now yielding “real progress.”
One major breakthrough came late last year, when Israel and Bolivia restored diplomatic relations after a two-year rupture. Bolivia also lifted visa requirements for Israeli travelers, a move welcomed by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar as a step toward strengthening people-to-people ties.
Other countries are following a similar path. Chile, under newly elected President José Antonio Kast, has pledged to reverse years of antagonistic policy toward Israel. Honduras has also signaled a “new era” in relations, aligning more closely with Jerusalem and Washington. Israel’s ambassador to Honduras, Nadav Goren, described this trend as a regional “blue wave” of governments that support democracy and US-aligned policies.
