Colombia recognises Israeli claim over the Golan Heights

Colombia's newly inaugurated hard-right government has officially recognized Israel's claim over the Golan Heights, a significant foreign policy shift that aligns the South American nation with the United States.

The government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office on Friday, announced the recognition Monday. Until now, only the U.S. had recognized Israel's 1981 annexation of the territory, which Israel captured from Syria in 1967. The United Nations maintains the plateau is Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation.

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The Government of Colombia recognises Israeli sovereignty over this territory, as well as that State's right to protect itself against external threats.

De la Espriella's administration stated that "maintaining Israel's control and sovereignty over the Golan Heights is an essential component of its national defence." This stance contrasts sharply with his leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro, who had strongly criticized Israel's actions in Gaza, severed diplomatic ties, and halted Israeli arms imports.

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Colombia recognises that maintaining Israel's control and sovereignty over the Golan Heights is an essential component of its national defence.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar thanked De la Espriella, referring to him as a "good friend." Saar noted that he and De la Espriella had agreed on the move prior to the inauguration. The recognition comes on the same day a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, killing at least 111 people.

De la Espriella, a US-backed millionaire, had promised to restore ties with Israel during his campaign, which focused on combating armed groups within Colombia. He also plans to move the Colombian embassy to Jerusalem, a move not recognized internationally, with most countries maintaining their diplomatic missions in Tel Aviv.

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Defensible borders are essential to guarantee the continued existence of the Jewish people in our historic homeland.