Paraguay has reopened its embassy in Jerusalem, affirming the city as Israel’s capital. This makes Paraguay the first country to do so following the Oct. 7 terrorist attack. This diplomatic move places Paraguay alongside nations like the U.S. and Guatemala, amidst broader discussions on Middle Eastern peace efforts, which include input from U.S. officials on changing regional dynamics.
On Thursday, Paraguay reinstated its embassy in Jerusalem, affirming the city as the capital of Israel. This move marks a significant geopolitical stance, especially since it was the first country to take such action following the commencement of the ongoing conflict spurred by the terrorist attack on October 7. Paraguay’s initial relocation of its embassy occurred in 2018 under President Horacio Cartes, only to be reversed by the subsequent administration. The current President Santiago Peña’s decision thus reestablishes Paraguay among a select group of nations supporting Jerusalem’s status.
The development follows a series of geopolitical shifts in the region, notably involving the United States. Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, acknowledged the impact of a ceasefire in Lebanon that improved conditions for negotiations concerning the conflict in Gaza. Sullivan underscored the altered dynamics in the Middle East, strengthening Israel while diminishing Iran’s influence and that of its affiliated militias.
The recognition and establishment of embassies in Jerusalem have become a point of contention among nations, with Paraguay joining a cohort that includes the United States, Honduras, Guatemala, Kosovo, and Papua New Guinea. This diplomatic gesture not only signifies Paraguay’s support for Israel but also reinforces the strategic alliances in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
In concluding remarks, Sullivan dismissed theories suggesting that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was awaiting the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump to finalize a peace deal. He stated, “We are now faced with a dramatically reshaped Middle East in which Israel is stronger, Iran is weaker, its proxies decimated, and a ceasefire that is new and will be lasting in Lebanon that ensures Israel’s security over the long term.”
The reopening of Paraguay’s embassy in Jerusalem signifies a notable shift in international recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, particularly following recent escalations in regional conflict. Previously, the Paraguayan government had relocated its embassy in 2018 under pro-Israel leadership but reversed this decision within a short period. The reestablishment occurs in a context where several other nations have also begun to formalize their diplomatic ties to Jerusalem, amidst broader geopolitical transformations in the Middle East.
In summary, Paraguay’s reopening of its embassy in Jerusalem underscores a significant diplomatic affirmation of Israel’s capital status amidst ongoing regional turbulence. This action places Paraguay alongside a select group of countries that have taken a similar stance, reflecting greater alignment with pro-Israel policies. Furthermore, the commentary from U.S. officials highlights shifting dynamics in Middle Eastern politics, culminating in renewed emphasis on negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.reviewjournal.com
