Several Latin American countries are strengthening their diplomatic, economic and security relations with Israel following a political shift in the region, where a number of right-wing leaders have replaced governments that previously criticised Israel over its military operations in Gaza. The development reflects changing political alliances, growing cooperation with the United States under President Donald Trump, and efforts by Israel to expand its international partnerships. According to a report published by Al Jazeera on October 17, 2026, the changing relationship has become particularly visible in countries such as Argentina, Colombia, Bolivia, Chile and Honduras.
One major factor behind the shift is the rise of right-wing political movements. Leaders such as Argentina's President Javier Milei have openly supported Israel and sought closer relations with its government. In Colombia, President Abelardo de la Espriella has reversed several policies introduced by his predecessor, Gustavo Petro, who severed diplomatic relations with Israel in 2024 over its war in Gaza. On October 14, 2026, Colombia opened its embassy in Jerusalem and restored its free trade agreement with Israel, marking a significant change in the country's foreign policy.
Another important factor is the desire of some Latin American governments to strengthen their relationship with the United States. President Trump's administration has promoted closer cooperation among governments that share its regional security priorities. Analysts say that some Latin American leaders see support for Israel as a way to demonstrate political alignment with Washington. Cooperation with Israel may also provide access to military equipment, intelligence capabilities, cybersecurity technology and training for security personnel. These interests have made relations with Israel attractive to governments seeking to strengthen their security institutions and international partnerships.
Religion and domestic politics have also played a significant role. Evangelical Christianity has expanded across Latin America, and some evangelical groups view support for Israel as an important religious and political commitment. In countries such as Brazil, Guatemala and Honduras, politicians have increasingly engaged with pro-Israel religious constituencies. Organisations supporting stronger relations with Israel have also worked to build connections with political leaders and lawmakers across the region. Experts say these religious and political networks can influence foreign policy, particularly when politicians seek the support of influential voter groups.
Economic and technological cooperation provides another reason for the growing ties. Israel has expertise in areas such as agricultural technology, water management, cybersecurity, medical innovation and disaster response. Latin American governments may see cooperation in these fields as an opportunity to address development challenges and attract investment. In April 2026, Argentina's President Javier Milei and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signed the Isaac Accords, an initiative designed to expand cooperation between Israel and Latin American countries in security, trade, technology and economic development.
However, the political shift has not eliminated disagreement over Israel's actions in Gaza or the rights of Palestinians. Several Latin American governments, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Bolivia at different stages, have supported international legal efforts concerning Israel's conduct during the war. Public opinion in the region has also remained critical of Israel in several countries, according to polling discussed by the Times of Israel. This creates a potential divide between governments seeking closer relations with Israel and sections of their populations that oppose its military campaign and policies toward Palestinians.
The future of these relationships may depend on whether the new partnerships produce practical benefits for Latin American societies and survive changes in political leadership. Because foreign policy in several countries can shift significantly when a new president takes office, closer relations today do not necessarily guarantee permanent alliances. For Israel, stronger diplomatic ties offer an opportunity to reduce its international isolation; for Latin American governments, they can provide political, economic and security opportunities. At the same time, the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains an important source of disagreement that could influence the direction of these relationships in the years ahead.