Colombia Recognizes Israeli Sovereignty Over Golan Heights Following Foreign Minister's Visit

Following Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar's visit to Colombia last weekend for the inauguration of Colombia's new president, Iván Duque Márquez, Colombia officially recognized Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights on Monday evening. The Colombian government cited the ongoing regional instability in the Middle East and the strategic importance of the Golan Heights to Israel's security as key reasons for its decision. Colombia affirmed Israel's right to defend itself against external threats and highlighted the escalating security challenges Israel has faced, especially after the October 7 terror attack.

Foreign Minister Sa'ar expressed gratitude to Colombia and President Duque for this historic recognition, emphasizing Israel's need for secure borders to ensure the Jewish people's survival in their historic homeland. He also thanked Colombian Foreign Minister Óscar Mauricio Bula Escobar for their cooperation and pledged to continue efforts to encourage more countries to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which has been under Israeli law for 45 years.

This diplomatic breakthrough accompanies a broader enhancement of Israel-Colombia relations, including the immediate restoration of full diplomatic ties, appointment of ambassadors, Colombia's embassy move to Jerusalem, visa waiver agreements, and resumption of a free trade agreement. Colombia also agreed to withdraw from a South African-led case against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague and to strengthen political, security, and economic cooperation.

Earlier on Monday, Sa'ar expressed solidarity with Colombia following a recent earthquake and offered Israel's assistance. This deepening partnership is part of Sa'ar's wider strategy to strengthen Israel's ties with Latin American countries, designating 2026 as "Latin America Year" to focus on expanding these relationships.