Chile Plans to Return Ambassador to Israel Within Weeks

Context President José Antonio Kast told Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Friday that Chile intends to restore its ambassador to Israel soon. The conversation took place during the inauguration ceremony of Costa Rica’s President Laura Fernández Delgado, marking Herzog’s first diplomatic meeting with world leaders at the event. Kast said he faces public pressure to address the Palestinian issue but will focus on strengthening Israel‑Chile ties. He added that his government is working to combat terrorism and antisemitism in Chile.

Key Facts Chile plans to return its ambassador to Israel within a few weeks. Herzog said the meeting would benefit both Israel and Chile. Chile recalled its ambassador to Israel in October 2023 due to the Gaza war, citing protests over alleged violations of international humanitarian law.

What It Means The ambassador’s return ends a diplomatic freeze that began when former President Gabriel Boric withdrew the envoy and later removed military and embassy attaches. Kast’s statement suggests a pivot from protest‑driven actions to a focus on bilateral sectors such as agriculture, health, artificial intelligence, and technology. Herzog’s comment that the discussion was “for the benefit of both of our countries” frames the engagement as mutually advantageous.

Watch for confirmation of the ambassador’s arrival date and any follow‑up agreements on joint projects in the coming months.