IDF rescue teams join search for survivors after deadly earthquake in Colombia

An 80-member Israeli search-and-rescue delegation, known as 'Brit Re’im' (Covenant of Friends), arrived in Cali, Colombia, on Friday to assist in the aftermath of a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The team, comprising IDF soldiers from the Home Front Command and officials from the Foreign and Defense Ministries, brought specialized equipment and search dogs to aid local crews. The earthquake, which struck western Colombia on August 10, has resulted in at least 287 deaths, with nearly 400 people still reported missing. Over 100,000 people have been affected, with widespread damage to homes, schools, and medical facilities. Maj. (res.) Roni Kaplan, an IDF spokesperson, stated that the mission aims to share Israel's expertise in urban search and rescue to help locate survivors trapped beneath the rubble. This deployment follows a commitment by the new Colombian administration under President Abelardo De La Espriella to reset diplomatic ties with Jerusalem, reversing the policies of his predecessor, Gustavo Petro, who had severed relations in 2024.