Colombia's new government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, has recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, citing the territory's importance to Israel's national defense amid regional instability. This marks a significant policy shift for Colombia.
This recognition by Colombia, a significant Latin American nation, aligns it with the United States on a contentious geopolitical issue, potentially impacting regional dynamics and international relations concerning the Golan Heights.
Colombia's new government, under President Abelardo de la Espriella, has officially recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The decision, announced shortly after the government also moved to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem, cites the strategic importance of the territory to Israel's national defense and its right to self-protection amid persistent regional instability.
In a statement, Colombia's Foreign Ministry declared that maintaining Israel's control and sovereignty over the Golan Heights is an essential component of its national defense and its ability to safeguard its citizens. This marks a significant departure from previous Colombian policy.
The United States previously recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights in 2019 under President Donald Trump. Israel captured the strategic plateau from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War and extended its law to the territory in 1981.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar thanked President de la Espriella for what he described as a "historic" recognition.