Israel’s aid delegation deployed to Venezuela following the country’s powerful earthquakes is assisting with the recovery effort by evaluating damaged buildings rather than conducting search-and-rescue operations.

The approximately 30-member team, led by the IDF’s Home Front Command, is made up primarily of structural engineers tasked with determining whether buildings can be safely repaired, reoccupied, or must be demolished. The mission was launched at the request of the Venezuelan government to support the country’s reconstruction.

Israeli experts are working alongside local authorities to inspect some of the estimated 1,300 damaged buildings, helping classify structures based on their condition and advising on demolition plans and debris removal where necessary.

The delegation also includes representatives from Israel’s Foreign Ministry, led by Ambassador Yoed Magen, who was born and raised in Venezuela.

Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations between Israel and Venezuela since 2009, the delegation says it has received a warm welcome. Brig. Gen. Elad Edri said the team has been operating openly in IDF uniforms without security concerns and was greeted upon arrival by local officials, diplomats, and members of Venezuela’s Jewish community.

The mission is expected to conclude on Sunday, although Israeli officials say it could be extended if Venezuela requests additional assistance.