Populist candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, 47, has apparently secured his place in the decisive second round of Colombia's presidential election after receiving more than 43% of the vote with approximately 98% of ballots counted, while a first-round victory requires 50% of the vote. Anti-Israel President Gustavo Petro said in response that he does not accept the initial vote count results and will wait for the final results. De la Espriella, who calls himself 'the tiger that awakened' and promised a military alliance with the U.S. and Israel, received congratulations from Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar on his achievement.