Colombia has taken a historic step by appointing Jorge Ivan Ospina as its first ambassador to the State of Palestine. This decision formalizes Colombia’s diplomatic presence in Palestine with an embassy established in Ramallah. The move comes amid the ongoing Gaza crisis and escalates Colombia’s active role in Middle East diplomacy.
Jorge Ivan Ospina to Lead Colombia’s Embassy in Ramallah
Jorge Ivan Ospina, former mayor of Cali and a prominent political figure, publicly confirmed his appointment on his X account. He thanked Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia for the trust placed in him. Ospina pledged to “denounce the genocide that the Palestinian people are suffering today” and to work toward the “freedom of those who live there.” His commitment signals a firm stance on human rights and international justice.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties Since 2018
Colombia officially recognized the State of Palestine in 2018. However, diplomatic relations remained limited, mostly through multilateral platforms. This appointment marks a significant escalation by establishing a permanent diplomatic mission on the ground. The embassy will prioritize humanitarian support, political dialogue, and the protection of Colombian citizens in the region.
Key Embassy Priorities
The new Colombian embassy in Ramallah will focus on several urgent goals. First, it will seek the release of Elkana Bohbot, a Colombian-Israeli citizen currently detained. Second, it will coordinate humanitarian aid for Palestinians affected by the conflict. Third, the embassy will actively promote a two-state solution to resolve the ongoing dispute between Israel and Palestine. Ospina aims to travel to Ramallah soon to begin his work.
Colombia’s Strong Stance Amid Gaza Crisis
The appointment comes at a critical moment. Israel’s military offensive in Gaza continues to worsen the humanitarian crisis. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has voiced strong opposition to Israel’s actions. He condemned the attacks, called for accountability, and severed diplomatic ties with Israel in May 2024. Petro also called on the US and EU to intervene and halt what he describes as genocide.
On May 26, 2025, Petro reiterated his message on X:
“In the fight for their lives, there are girls trying to survive the bombing of a school by Netanyahu, the genocidal man. There is a decisive complicity in producing this horror in the US and the EU.”
Conclusion: A Bold Move in Global Diplomacy
Colombia’s decision to appoint its first ambassador to Palestine signals a clear diplomatic and political message. It demonstrates Colombia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and a desire to play a more influential role in Middle East peace efforts. As the Gaza crisis intensifies, Colombia aligns itself with calls for justice, humanitarian relief, and a peaceful two-state resolution.
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