Colombia Becomes Second Nation to Back Israel on Golan Heights
What Happened
Colombia's new government under President Abelardo de la Espriella has officially recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, becoming only the second country after the United States to do so. The Colombian Foreign Ministry said Israel's control of the territory is an essential component of its national defence and security.
Key Takeaways
The decision marks a major shift in Colombia's foreign policy and challenges the long-standing international position that the Golan Heights remains Syrian territory occupied by Israel. The United Nations continues to regard the region as part of Syria, and most countries do not recognize Israel's 1981 annexation of the territory.