Chile and Honduras formally restored ambassadorial representation to Israel on Monday, with six new ambassadors presenting their diplomatic credentials to Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem.
The ceremony marked the first ambassadorial presence for both Chile and Honduras in Israel since diplomatic relations cooled following the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023.
Chilean Ambassador Gabriel Alejandro Zaliasnik Schilkurt described the appointment as "an emotional moment." He stated: "As a Chilean and a member of the Jewish community, I am honored to be appointed by the president of Chile to be ambassador to Israel and to strengthen the relationship with Israel."
Following what he characterized as "the strain of the last couple of years," Zaliasnik said his mission is to rebuild bilateral ties while serving all of Chilean society. "For me, as a proud Chilean Zionist, I have a special honor to bring with me the commitment of our President José Antonio Kast to reengage, reconstruct and rebuild our strong historic relations," He added.
Herzog confirmed that Chile's president had committed during a May visit to return an ambassador to Israel. "I am now delighted to welcome Ambassador Zaliasnik here in Israel, who comes with a message on behalf of all Chileans to increase ties with Israel. This is a milestone in our relations," Herzog said.
In a private meeting, Herzog told Zaliasnik: "Your arrival here represents a milestone in the relations between Israel and Chile, and I had the great honor of being part of this process." Herzog acknowledged the political sensitivities involved, saying: "I know it's not easy. I know that you had bad people trying to undermine this appointment, and we are honored and pleased to have you here."
Herzog asked the ambassador to convey his "warmest regards and gratitude" To Kast and expressed hope for a reciprocal presidential visit.
Zaliasnik, who previously served as president of the Jewish Community of Chile, signed the official guest book describing Chile and Israel as two "lands of poets."
Herzog also welcomed Honduras's returning ambassador, José Luis Núñez Bennet, noting that Honduras maintains its embassy in Jerusalem. "I am now pleased to receive the diplomatic credentials of Ambassador José Luis Núñez Bennet, as the relations between Israel and Honduras continue to reach new heights," He said.
Four other ambassadors presented credentials at the ceremony: Alexander Graf Lambsdorff of Germany, Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu of Nigeria, Beka Dvali of Georgia, and Saman Kumar Chandrasiri of Sri Lanka.
Herzog described Germany's bilateral relationship as "rooted in a painful history" That has developed into "a strong and vibrant partnership across so many fields."
Addressing the region, Herzog commented on diplomatic efforts regarding Gaza, stating: "I see a lot of positive elements in the efforts of the Board of Peace, under the auspices of President Trump and his leadership," While noting that any arrangement must include "the complete disarmament of Hamas."