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Syria has formally protested to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the U.N. Security Council over Colombia's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, state news agency SANA reported Wednesday.
According to SANA, Damascus sent letters conveying its protest, condemnation and categorical rejection of Colombia's recognition of what Syria described as "Israeli sovereignty" over the occupied Golan Heights.
Syria said the move violated its sovereignty. No further details were provided in the report.
Colombia on Monday officially recognized Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, a strategic Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation since 1967.
"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 Colombia's decision and thanked Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella and Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar.
Saar described the recognition as a "historic decision."
Colombia's move has drawn objections from Syria and several regional countries.
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