Colombia announced that it had ended diplomatic relations with Iran as of September 19. The Foreign Ministry said the decision was taken in line with national and regional security concerns and the country’s foreign policy priorities.
Reasons cited by the ministry
Colombia’s Foreign Ministry cited allegations that Iran was linked to international terrorist and narco-terrorist groups, human rights violations and the need to combat cross-border crime among the grounds for the decision.
The ministry’s statement also listed verified attacks targeting countries that were not party to the conflict in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz among the factors taken into consideration. It also said that the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which was seeking to monitor the scope of Iran’s nuclear program, had been obstructed.
Colombia’s Foreign Ministry said these developments had weakened confidence in the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Colombia changes its policy toward Israel
The country’s new President Abelardo de la Espriella reshaped Colombia’s alliances after taking office in August. The de la Espriella administration accelerated efforts to restore relations with Israel.
The new administration also reversed former President Gustavo Petro’s strong stance on the genocide in Gaza.