The Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah and radical Iranian groups have a presence in Bolivia, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, according to Israel's ambassador to Costa Rica, Mijal Gur Aryeh. The ambassador pointed out that there are also bases of Iran and Hezbollah in other countries in the region, such as Venezuela and Bolivia.
The diplomat detailed that Israeli intelligence services have collaborated with several Latin American countries to intercept terrorist groups, mentioning cases in Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, and Mexico. Regarding cooperation with the United States in the region, Gur Aryeh stated that it is close and relevant information is shared in this matter.
Regarding the operation of Hezbollah and radical Iranians in Latin America, the ambassador did not provide specific details due to the nature of intelligence. However, she mentioned the 1994 attack against the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) in Buenos Aires as an example of Iran's involvement in terrorist activities in the region.
The diplomat emphasized Israel's invitation to democratic countries to strengthen cooperation to tackle terrorism and organized crime. Additionally, she mentioned Israel's fight against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran's terrorism, identifying the latter as the leader of an axis that promotes violence and terrorism in the Middle East.
Concerning Bolivia, the Bolivian government categorically rejected the statements of the Israeli ambassador, deeming them irresponsible and unfounded. The Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that the country is pacifist and constitutionally prohibits the establishment of foreign military bases on its territory. They considered Gur Aryeh's assertions as attempts to generate confrontation among Latin American countries, contrary to the region's efforts to consolidate itself as a zone of peace.
Finally, the Bolivian government reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian cause and backed the cessation of violence against Palestinian territories, in line with the position of the majority of United Nations member states.
