An Israeli rescue and humanitarian aid delegation will depart tonight (Thursday) for Colombia following the earthquake that struck the country. The mission, called “Brit Re’im” (Alliance of Friends), is a joint effort by the Foreign Ministry, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the Defense Ministry, and will depart aboard an Israeli Air Force aircraft from Nevatim Airbase.
Upon landing in Colombia, the delegation will immediately begin rescue operations and humanitarian assistance efforts, including distributing food and water packages to earthquake victims. The rescue force will be led by Brig. Gen. (res.) Yossi Pinto, commander of the Home Front Command’s National Search and Rescue Unit. The delegation consists of approximately 80 personnel, including rescue workers and specialists from various fields, both active-duty and reserve personnel.
The Foreign Ministry said the mission is being dispatched at the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s offer to his Colombian counterpart to provide Israeli assistance to the country. Israel’s Embassy in Colombia will coordinate the delegation’s activities with local authorities and relevant Colombian agencies.