Israeli Leaders Recognize Golan Heights Claim as Latin American Right-Wing Governments Deepen Ties with Israel

Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has taken a significant step by formally recognizing Israel’s claim over the Golan Heights. This move marks a notable shift in Latin American diplomatic relations, as several right-wing governments in the region have increasingly aligned themselves with Israeli interests. The decision reflects a broader trend where leaders from nations such as Brazil, Chile, and Argentina have strengthened ties with Israel, despite public sentiment in these countries largely favoring a critical stance toward the nation.

Public opinion in Latin America remains largely unfavorable toward Israel. According to a 2026 Pew Research Center survey, a majority of respondents in Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, and Peru held negative views of Israel, with favorable opinions ranging from 21 to 29 percent. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of respondents in these countries expressed “no confidence” in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This contrast between public sentiment and governmental actions raises questions about the motivations driving these diplomatic shifts.

Experts identify three primary factors influencing the pro-Israel stance of Latin America’s right-wing leaders. First, many of these leaders, particularly among the region’s elite, view support for Israel as a cost-effective way to signal alignment with the United States and its allies, especially the Trump administration. Second, evangelical and Pentecostal religious groups have played a growing role in shaping pro-Israel politics, with Israel’s multinational lobby cultivating a religious electorate that holds considerable political influence. Third, security cooperation with Israel has served strategic purposes for some governments, including the surveillance of political opponents.

In Brazil, presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro has demonstrated strong support for Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, expressing “full support” for their cause. Bolsonaro also stated that, if elected, his first international visit would be to what he and Israeli supremacists refer to as “Judea and Samaria.” These statements highlight the extent to which some leaders are aligning themselves with Israeli territorial claims, despite the region’s overall skepticism toward Israel.

The growing alignment between Latin American right-wing governments and Israel has been facilitated by a combination of political, religious, and strategic interests. While public opinion in the region remains largely critical of Israel, the actions of these governments suggest a complex interplay of factors that continue to shape the region’s foreign policy landscape. As the situation evolves, the implications for regional stability and international relations will remain a subject of close observation.

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