Venezuela and Israel have agreed to restore consular services in their respective countries, marking a major shift in relations after a 17-year diplomatic break. The decision was announced by both governments on Tuesday. Venezuela cut ties with Israel in 2009 over Israeli military attacks in the Gaza Strip.

The move signals a change in Venezuela’s foreign policy. The South American country has recently moved closer to Israel’s ally, the United States. This shift came after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January. Venezuela has since moved away from its long-standing partnership with Iran.

Venezuela’s government, now led by Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, said the decision followed talks between senior officials from the two countries. An Israeli humanitarian delegation visited Venezuela after deadly earthquakes struck the country in June. The visit helped open discussions that later led to the agreement to restart consular services.

The Venezuelan government said the renewed services will also recognise the relationship between Israel and Venezuela’s Jewish community. It described the community as an important link between the two nations.

"Both governments recognise the importance of the relationship between the State of Israel and the Jewish community in Venezuela, which constitutes an important historic bridge of friendship between the two countries," Venezuela's government said in a statement, which was also issued by Israel's foreign ministry.

The agreement comes as Venezuela reassesses its international partnerships. For years, Caracas maintained close relations with Iran. Both countries are major oil producers and faced years of U.S. sanctions. Their ties included political and economic cooperation as they opposed U.S. pressure.

Iran has also condemned Washington’s recent intervention in Caracas. The latest move between Venezuela and Israel could further reshape Venezuela’s relations with countries in the Middle East and the United States.

The restoration of consular services does not amount to a full restoration of diplomatic relations. However, it marks a significant step after years of strained ties. The agreement also creates a channel for greater contact between Venezuelan and Israeli officials and strengthens links with Venezuela’s Jewish community.