Colombia cuts diplomatic ties with Iran over security concerns

Colombia has formally severed diplomatic relations with Iran, citing “national and hemispheric security concerns,” alleged links to international terrorist and narcoterrorist groups, and human rights violations.

The Foreign Ministry said the decision took effect on Sept. 19 and reflected the government’s foreign policy priorities, including “the fight against transnational crime and the protection of national security,” according to the ministry’s statement.

Reasons cited by Colombia

The ministry said Colombia had also considered what it described as confirmed human rights violations, verified attacks against countries not involved in the Middle East conflict, the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian authorities’ obstruction of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s efforts to assess the scope of Iran’s nuclear programme.

“These facts deteriorated Colombia’s trust in the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the ministry said.

Colombia’s foreign policy shift

Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has been reshaping the South American country’s alliances since taking office in August.

His administration has accelerated efforts to restore Colombia’s ties with Israel, reversing former President Gustavo Petro’s strong stance on the Gaza conflict and his accusations regarding genocide there.