Paraguay moves embassy back to Jerusalem, reaffirming support for Israel

Paraguay’s President Santiago Pena has traveled to Israel to move the country’s embassy back to Jerusalem, a decision that marks a reversal of the 2018 move when Paraguay briefly relocated its embassy there before moving it back to Tel Aviv.

Pena’s visit comes with a special session held in Israel’s Knesset, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the ongoing issues in Jerusalem and Syria.

Key details

• Netanyahu reaffirmed Jerusalem as the “capital of the Jews” for over 3,000 years and said it would “never be divided again” following the 1967 war that resulted in the occupation of East Jerusalem.
• The Israeli Prime Minister also touched on Syria, expressing hope that no new fronts would open, but acknowledging that the possibility of further escalation remained.

Big picture

• Paraguay’s embassy relocation is the latest in a series of moves by countries making diplomatic gestures toward Israel’s claim to Jerusalem. Despite global disputes over the status of the city, Paraguay is proceeding with this symbolic shift.
• Israel’s ongoing stance against the potential division of Jerusalem remains firm, especially in light of recent regional tensions.

Behind scenes

• Paraguay had initially moved its embassy to Jerusalem in 2018, before reversing the decision within months. This latest move follows the country’s desire to reaffirm its support for Israel, particularly in the context of regional and international diplomatic efforts.
• The embassy relocation will be formalized in a ceremony tomorrow, marking a new chapter in Paraguay-Israel relations.

Regional dynamics

• Israeli airstrikes in Syria continue to target remnants of Assad’s forces, with regional powers like Turkiye, Egypt, and Qatar expressing concern over Israel’s expanding military actions.
• Tensions are high, with Israel’s operation aimed at establishing a “sterile defense zone” in southern Syria drawing criticism from its neighbors.

What’s next

• Paraguay’s embassy will officially reopen in Jerusalem tomorrow, further solidifying the country’s position in the ongoing debate over the city’s status.
• The international community is closely watching how Israel’s actions in Syria evolve, with fears of potential escalation into new fronts.