DIPLOMATIC SHIFT: Colombia Recognizes Israeli Sovereignty Over The Golan Heights

Colombia's newly formed government has formally recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, stating that Israel's control of the strategic territory is vital to its national security given ongoing regional instability in the Middle East.

In a statement, Colombia's Foreign Ministry said: "Given the persistent regional instability in the Middle East and considering the strategic importance of the Golan Heights to Israel's security, the Government of Colombia recognizes Israeli sovereignty over this territory, as well as Israel's right to protect itself against external threats." The ministry added that "maintaining Israel's control and sovereignty over the Golan Heights is an essential component of its national defense and its ability to protect and safeguard its citizens."

The policy shift follows Colombia's earlier decision to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem under the new administration. The move aligns Colombia with the United States, which recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights in 2019. Israel took control of the plateau from Syria during the 1967 Six Day War and applied Israeli law to the territory in 1981.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar met with Colombia's incoming president, Abelardo de la Espriella, in Barranquilla on August 6, the day before the president's inauguration.