Paraguay reopened its embassy in occupied Al-Quds on Thursday, reaffirming its political alignment and cooperation with the Israeli occupation.

The event was presided over by Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking a contentious development in regional and international relations.

President Peña framed the decision as a commitment to shared values, despite widespread international condemnation of the occupation of Palestinian territories.

"This is something we believe in: that all countries in the world have the right to freedom and self-determination. We will stand with Israel no matter what," Peña said during his speech.

He further stated Paraguay’s intent to enhance its global presence, adding, "We want to play in the big leagues, raise our voice, and defend what we believe in."

The reopening ceremony included First Lady Leticia Ocampos, Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, Paraguayan Ambassador to the occupation Alejandro Rubín, and other high-ranking Paraguayan officials.

El Gobierno del Paraguay concretó este jueves el traslado y apertura de su embajada en la ciudad de Jerusalén, reafirmando los lazos de amistad y cooperación con el Estado de Israel.

➡️https://t.co/tTdB7yeycB pic.twitter.com/ykdxAYSKYR

— Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (@mreparaguay) December 12, 2024

Paraguay is among the nine countries that voted against the UNGA resolution demanding an end to the Gaza war and the release of all captives yesterday.

The other countries that voted against the resolution were Argentina, the Czech Republic, Hungary, the Israeli occupation, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and the United States.

Read more: UNGA adopts two draft resolutions for ceasefire in Gaza, backs UNRWA