Colombia has joined other Latin American countries in severing diplomatic relations with Israel over its military campaign in Gaza, with President Gustavo Petro calling Israel’s actions “genocide.” However, this decision could have broader repercussions for Colombia due to longstanding agreements with Israel, particularly in the realm of security. Colombia’s military relies heavily on Israeli-built warplanes and weapons to combat drug cartels and rebel groups. There are also concerns about the impact on a free trade agreement between the two countries that went into effect in 2020.
The military cooperation between Colombia and Israel dates back to 1957 when they established diplomatic relations. Both countries have signed numerous agreements on various issues, with military contracts being one of the key aspects. Colombia’s fleet of fighter jets is entirely Israeli-built, with the aging aircraft requiring maintenance that can only be carried out by Israeli firms. While there have been proposals from other countries for replacement options, Petro’s administration has prioritized spending elsewhere. Colombia also relies on Israeli assistance for its cybersecurity needs.
The announcement by President Petro to end diplomatic relations with Israel has raised questions about the future of Colombia’s military-related contracts with Israel. While it remains unclear how this decision will impact existing contracts, Defense Minister Iván Velásquez has stated that no new contracts will be signed with Israel. The government has established a committee to explore alternative suppliers and options, including potentially developing a rifle through the Colombian military industry to replace the Israeli-manufactured Galil rifles. Security cooperation has been a point of tension between the two countries, with recent incidents leading to suspensions of arms purchases.
In addition to security cooperation, Colombia and Israel also have a trade relationship that was strengthened by a free trade agreement that came into effect in 2020. Israel now buys 1% of Colombia’s total exports, including coal, coffee, and flowers. However, there has been a significant drop in exports to Israel in the past year. Colombia’s imports from Israel include electrical equipment, plastics, and fertilizers. It remains to be seen how the diplomatic fallout between the two countries will affect their trade agreement and economic ties moving forward.
The potential implications of Colombia’s decision to sever diplomatic relations with Israel extend beyond the military and trade aspects. The move could have broader geopolitical consequences for Colombia in the Latin American region and internationally. It also reflects the growing criticism and condemnation of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, with other Latin American countries also taking similar steps. The long-term impact of this decision on Colombia’s relationship with Israel and its place in the global community remains to be seen.
