Paraguay to inaugurate embassy in Jerusalem, strengthening Israel ties

Paraguay is set to become the sixth nation to establish an embassy in Jerusalem, reaffirming its strong support for Israel. In a ceremony this Wednesday, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña will restore his country’s diplomatic mission to the Jewish people’s historic capital.

The two-day visit will include President Peña addressing Israel’s Knesset and meeting with key leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog. The embassy inauguration will take place on Thursday at the Har Hotzvim industrial park in Jerusalem, with families of victims from the October 7 Hamas massacre in attendance.

Paraguay’s ties with Israel date back to its vote in favor of the establishment of the Jewish state at the United Nations in 1947. President Peña has long supported relocating his country’s embassy, stating, “The State of Israel recognizes Jerusalem as its capital. The seat of the parliament is in Jerusalem, the president is in Jerusalem. So who are we to question where they establish their own capital?”

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana praised Paraguay’s decision, highlighting the deepening relationship between the two nations. “About three months ago, I had the honor of inaugurating the Israeli embassy in Paraguay,” Ohana said. “Paraguay’s president will inaugurate the embassy in Jerusalem, with families of victims from October 7 in attendance.”

Paraguay joins the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Kosovo, and Papua New Guinea in establishing embassies in Jerusalem. Most nations still maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv, but Paraguay’s move could inspire others to follow suit.

This historic decision reinforces Paraguay’s solidarity with Israel, demonstrating a commitment to recognizing Jerusalem as its rightful capital. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel’s growing diplomatic achievements.