Panama will be launching a parliamentary Israel caucus on Tuesday, in the latest fruition of faith-based diplomacy around the world.
The move serves as a counterweight to the international opprobrium of Israel caused by the fallout from the two-year war against Hamas.
“The formation of the Israel Allies Caucus represents a significant step in strengthening the ties between Panama and Israel,” said Panamanian Deputy Manuel Cohen Salerno.
“We will not only support Israel on the diplomatic front but will also advocate for Israel in Panama and throughout Central America,” added Panamanian Deputy José Luis Varela.
The two lawmakers, who will serve as Caucus co-chairs, are among more than 10 Panamanian Parliament members united in their support for Israel and by a shared commitment to the Judeo-Christian values.
The new caucus in the predominantly Catholic nation is part of an ever-growing network of 63 Israel Allies Caucuses around the world incorporating over 1,600 legislators.
“The decision of more than ten Members of the National Assembly to join the Israel Allies Caucus in Panama is a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment of Panama to Israel, especially in these challenging times,” said Leopoldo Martínez, Latin America director of the Israel Allies Foundation. “We see the establishment of this new Caucus not only as a pivotal moment for strengthening the historic and diplomatic ties, but also as an opportunity to reinforce the shared values that bind us.”
During the event, the participating deputies signed a Declaration of Solidarity and Friendship with the State of Israel, reaffirming Panama’s historic role as one of the first countries to support Israel’s establishment by voting in favor of U.N. Resolution 181 in 1947.
Taking a step ahead of their government, the lawmaker’s declaration explicitly recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, reflecting Panama’s enduring commitment to Israel’s sovereignty and security.
“The establishment of Panama’s Parliamentary Israel Allies Caucus represents a powerful stride in fostering diplomatic solidarity, setting the stage for Panama to one day join the growing chorus of nations proudly placing their embassy in Jerusalem, Israel’s eternal capital,” said IAF President Josh Reinstein.
“The establishment of the Israel Caucus in Panama’s National Assembly comes at a historic moment—when nations must decide whether they stand with truth, democracy, and the forces of progress, or with the forces of hate and distortion,” Panama’s Ambassador to Israel Ezra Cohen told JNS. “Panama stands firmly with Israel and the United States, united against extremism and disinformation. Our cooperation with Israel continues to deepen across technology, agriculture, security, and innovation, building a bridge of values and opportunity that strengthens both nations and contributes to peace and prosperity in the region.”
