Latin America and Israel’s Diplomatic Shift

Latin America is undergoing a significant diplomatic shift. While several governments have taken legal or diplomatic steps challenging Israel’s conduct in Gaza and emphasizing Palestinian rights, a growing number of right-wing governments are deepening political, security, military, and trade ties with Israel.

Colombia offers a striking example. In August 2026, President Abelardo de la Espriella’s government recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, becoming only the second country after the United States to do so.

So what does this emerging alignment mean for Israel’s international position—and for Latin America’s long-standing emphasis on international law?

Our guest today on Arab Talk is Xavier Abu Eid, whose recent +972 Magazine article, “Why Latin America is Key to Israel’s Diplomatic Impunity,” examines Israel’s growing relationships with Latin America’s new right-wing governments and what they could mean as Israel faces increasing international legal and political pressure.

Xavier is a political scientist, author of "Rooted in Palestine", and holds a PhD in Religion, Theology, and Peace Studies from Trinity College Dublin.