Newsletters
Colombia on Monday officially recognized Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, a strategic Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation since 1967, marking a shift in Bogota's policy toward the disputed area.
"The Government of Colombia recognizes Israeli sovereignty over this territory, as well as the right of that state to protect itself against external threats," the Colombian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The ministry said maintaining control over the plateau was an "essential component" of Israel's national defense, particularly amid escalating regional security challenges.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar welcomed the move and thanked Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella and Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar.
Saar described Colombia's recognition as a "historic decision."
The decision comes as Israel has expanded its military presence in Syria following the collapse of the Assad government in December 2024.
Israel declared the 1974 disengagement agreement void and moved into U.N.-monitored buffer zones, despite Syria's new administration saying it remained committed to existing treaties.
Israel captured the Golan Heights in 1967 and unilaterally annexed the territory in 1981. The area remains at the center of an international dispute.
In 2019, during President Donald Trump's first term, the U.S. became the first country to recognize the Golan Heights as part of Israel.
Espriella, Colombia's new pro-Israel president, received strong backing from Trump during his election campaign.
The Colombian president also recently ordered the suspension of plans for an embassy in Palestine.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
