Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó—recognized by numerous countries, including the United States and Israel as its interim leader amid pushback against Socialist leader Nicolás Maduro—said he is looking to renew the ties with Israel that his country ceased a decade ago to align itself with the Palestinians.
“I am very happy to announce that the process of stabilizing relations with Israel is in full swing,” Guaidó told Israel Hayom. “It is very important for us. We will renew ties, later we will announce the appointment of an ambassador to Israel, and we really hope an ambassador from Israel will come to us.”
When asked by the outlet if the embassy would be in Jerusalem, Guaidó said “it is one of the subjects we are talking about. I will declare the resumption of ties and the site of the embassy at the proper time.”
Many members of the Venezuelan Jewish community have fled the increasing poverty and anti-Semitism prevalent in the country, having moved to Israel and other countries.
Concerning the existing community there, Guaidó said: “There are many Venezuelans in Israel and many Jews in Venezuela. This [Jewish] community is very active and prosperous, one which has contributed greatly to our society. I assume they are happy we are renewing ties with Israel.”
