The Israeli humanitarian aid mission sent to Venezuela following a powerful earthquake has concluded its operations and returned home. Nevertheless, Israel has announced that it will continue to provide professional remote support for Venezuela's recovery process.
The aforementioned mission was dispatched following a decision by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, based on a request from the Venezuelan government. Additionally, the duration of the delegation's stay in the country was extended at the request of local authorities.
The team, consisting of more than 50 members from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the National Emergency Management Authority, provided support for search and rescue, assessment, and recovery efforts in the earthquake-affected areas.
During a meeting held to mark the conclusion of the mission, Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, thanked the Israeli delegation for the humanitarian aid provided. The meeting included discussions on the results of the work performed and the next steps regarding the country's recovery.
The Israeli side stated that although the humanitarian mission has concluded, Israeli experts will continue to cooperate with relevant Venezuelan agencies and provide remote expert support for the recovery process.
The mission was led by Israel's ambassador to Venezuela, Yoav Magen, and the Chief of Staff of the Home Front Command, Brigadier General Elad Edri. In the final phase of the operation, the mission was led by reserve Brigadier General Yossi Pinto and Ambassador Gil Artzieli.