BOGOTÁ: Colombia’s new government has recognised Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, becoming the second country after the United States to formally recognise Israel’s claim over the territory.
President Abelardo de la Espriella’s government announced the decision on Monday, days after the new Colombian leader took office following a campaign in which he promised closer relations with Israel and the United States.
“The Government of Colombia recognises Israeli sovereignty over this territory, as well as that State’s right to protect itself against external threats,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
It added that maintaining Israeli control over the Golan Heights was an important part of the country’s national defence.
Israel captured most of the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 war and effectively annexed the territory in 1981.
The United Nations considers the Golan Heights Syrian territory under Israeli occupation and does not recognise Israel’s annexation. The United States recognised Israeli sovereignty over the territory in 2019.
Israel welcomes the decision
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar welcomed Colombia’s move and thanked De la Espriella, saying the two had agreed on the decision before the president’s inauguration.
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The recognition marks a major shift in Colombia’s foreign policy towards Israel.
Former president Gustavo Petro had severed diplomatic relations with Israel and halted Israeli arms imports during his administration.
De la Espriella has pledged to restore close relations and said last month that he planned to open a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem.
Most countries maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv because sovereignty over Jerusalem remains internationally disputed.
