Israeli military-civilian advance team arrives in Venezuela to assist in emergency earthquake response

An advance team of an Israeli aid delegation, including both military and civilian members, arrived in Venezuela a short while ago to assist in the aftermath of the powerful earthquakes that struck the South American country.

“Immediately upon landing, members of the delegation began a series of working meetings with the local authorities, emergency services and additional partners to form a situational assessment, map the needs on the ground, plan the joint activity, and complete preparations ahead of the start of operational activity,” the military and Foreign Ministry say in a joint statement.

Ambassador Yoed Magen, who grew up in Venezuela, is leading the advance team on behalf of the Foreign Ministry, while the military’s team is led by Home Front Command Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Elad Edri.

The IDF and Foreign Ministry say that in the coming days, the rest of the aid delegation will arrive in Venezuela and join the advance team.

“Once preparations are complete, the expert teams will begin operating alongside the local authorities and assist in the recovery efforts, while sharing the knowledge and experience the State of Israel has gained in dealing with earthquakes, emergency situations, and aid missions around the world,” the statement adds.