Saa'r: Colombia's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights 'historic'

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar praised Colombia's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights as a "historic decision" Following the country's announcement on Monday.

Sa'ar made the comments after meeting with Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, during a visit to attend the presidential inauguration ceremony. "I will continue working so that more countries join the United States, under [U.S.] President [Donald] Trump, and Colombia, under President de la Espriella, in recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, where Israeli law was applied 45 years ago," Sa'ar said.

Colombia's government cited regional instability and the strategic importance of the territory to Israel's security in its statement recognizing sovereignty. The statement referenced Israel's "persistent and existential security challenges" And noted that the October 7, 2023 attack "demonstrated both the severity and the evolving nature of the dangers facing the Israeli people," Adding that Israeli control over the Golan Heights constitutes "an essential component of its national security."

The recognition marks one element of broader diplomatic arrangements between the nations. Colombia and Israel agreed to restore full diplomatic relations, appoint ambassadors, relocate Colombia's embassy to Jerusalem, eliminate visa requirements, establish a free-trade agreement, and withdraw from South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and from the "Hague Group." The countries also agreed to expand collaboration in diplomatic, security and economic matters.

Sa'ar also spoke by phone with Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar on Monday, expressing solidarity following a recent earthquake and offering Israeli assistance.

The diplomatic shift represents a reversal from the previous government under President Gustavo Petro, who severed ties with Israel during the Gaza conflict and criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. De la Espriella's election signals a return to closer partnership; he campaigned on restoring Israeli relations and moving Colombia's embassy to Jerusalem.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has designated 2026 as the "Year of Latin America" As part of efforts to strengthen Israel's ties across the region.