Israel, Bolivia Restore Diplomatic Ties After 15-Year Rift

Israel and Bolivia officially renewed diplomatic relations on Wednesday after years of intermittent estrangement, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Bolivian counterpart Fernando Aramayo signing a joint declaration in Washington.

The ceremony, also attended by Bolivia’s Finance Minister José Gabriel Espinosa, marks the full restoration of ties cut under Bolivia’s previous left-wing leadership during past conflicts in Gaza.

“Today, we are ending a long and unnecessary chapter of estrangement between our two nations,” said Sa’ar. “I am pleased to announce that Israel and Bolivia are renewing diplomatic relations.”

Bolivia initially severed ties with Israel in 2009 under then-President Evo Morales, citing Israeli operations in Gaza. Relations were briefly restored in 2019 but were again suspended following renewed conflict with Hamas.

The move comes under Bolivia’s new center-right government led by President Rodrigo Paz, elected in November on a platform of renewed engagement with the West. Paz, of the Christian Democratic Party, is the first non-left-wing president in nearly two decades.

In a significant gesture, Sa’ar also announced the immediate abolition of visa requirements for Israeli travelers to Bolivia. “Thousands of Israelis will return to visit this beautiful country every year,” he said.

The agreement commits both nations to appoint ambassadors “as soon as possible” and outlines plans for economic cooperation across public and private sectors.

“Strengthening relations with Latin American countries is a key objective of my foreign policy for 2026,” Sa’ar noted.

The declaration emphasized a shared vision of mutual benefit, with Bolivians “rediscovering the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Holy Land,” and Israelis exploring “the breathtaking natural beauty and warm hospitality of Bolivia.”

As part of the renewal, both governments signaled interest in expanding trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

President Paz, though lacking a legislative majority, has expressed a desire to pivot Bolivian foreign policy toward greater integration with democratic allies, including the United States and Israel. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.