Nicaragua and Israel have decided to re-establish diplomatic relations, suspended in 2010, effective immediately, the Central American nation said on Tuesday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at the move on Tuesday. Speaking at a ceremony honoring late Israeli presidents and prime ministers in Jerusalem, he said, "Today we are blessed with reciprocal relations with more than 160 countries, and this number is growing. Next week another country will announce the establishment of relations with the State of Israel." Nicaragua's Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying, "The two governments place great importance on the renewal of relations with the aim of promoting joint activity for the welfare of both peoples and to contribute to the fight for peace in the world." Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega suspended diplomatic ties with Israel in 2010 in protest after Israeli commandos staged a deadly raid on the Mavi Marmara, which was trying to breach the maritime blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip to prevent arms smuggling to the terrorist groups in the enclave. Nicaragua is known for its alliance with Iran, which in the past established a Hezbollah training facility in northern Nicaragua. The country has also previously expressed support for the Palestinian Authority's statehood efforts.
Israel, Nicaragua restore diplomatic ties after 7-year break
Managua cut ties with Jerusalem in 2010, following the deadly Mavi Marmara raid • Nicaraguan Foreign Ministry: Two governments place great importance on joint activity for the welfare of both peoples, seek to contribute to the fight for world peace.
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