Colombia announces recognition of Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights

Colombia officially recognized Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights on Monday, becoming only the second UN member state to do so after the United States in 2019. The Colombian Foreign Ministry stated its recognition stems from the Golan Heights being “an essential component of its national defense and its ability to protect and safeguard its citizens.” This decision fulfills a commitment made between Israel and Colombia on Saturday. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar thanked Colombian President Álvaro de la Espriella and Foreign Minister Omar Bola Escobar, emphasizing that "Defensible borders are essential to ensure the continued existence of the Jewish people in their historic homeland."