On August 10, 2026, Colombia’s new government formally recognized Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, becoming the second country in the world to do so after the United States acknowledged the claim in 2019. The decision was announced by Colombia’s foreign ministry, which cited regional instability in the Middle East and the strategic significance of the Golan Heights to Israel’s national security as key factors behind the move. The statement emphasized that Israel’s control of the territory is vital to its ability to defend itself against external threats and protect its citizens. The announcement followed the swearing-in of Abelardo de la Espriella as Colombia’s president earlier that week. De la Espriella, a pro-Israel lawyer, has pledged to relocate Colombia’s embassy to Jerusalem and revive bilateral ties that had deteriorated during the Gaza conflict under previous president Gustavo Petro. The ceremony marking de la Espriella’s inauguration included participation from Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, who welcomed the decision as a demonstration of Colombia’s leadership and commitment to Israel’s security. Sa’ar expressed appreciation for de la Espriella’s “historic decision” to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights. He noted that Israel, being a small country without substantial strategic depth, requires defensible borders to ensure the survival of the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland. Sa’ar also indicated his intention to encourage other nations to follow the example set by the United States and Colombia, urging them to acknowledge Israel’s control over the region. The Golan Heights were captured by Israel from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War. In 1981, Israel extended its legal jurisdiction to the territory, a move widely regarded as equivalent to formal annexation. While the U.S. recognized Israel’s sovereignty over the area in 2019 under former President Donald Trump, subsequent administrations have not reversed this stance. Colombia’s decision marks a significant shift in international diplomacy regarding the status of the Golan Heights. The recognition comes amid broader efforts by Colombia to strengthen its relationship with Israel. Earlier this year, Colombia restored diplomatic relations with Israel, appointed ambassadors, and planned to move its embassy to Jerusalem. Additionally, Colombia withdrew its support for South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, which alleged that Israel committed genocide during the Gaza war. These actions reflect a growing alignment between Colombia and Israel on geopolitical issues. The move has drawn praise from local leaders in the Golan Heights region. Ori Kallner, head of the Golan Regional Council, commended Colombia’s recognition as morally, diplomatically, and strategically justified. He highlighted the importance of international acknowledgment in bolstering the region’s standing globally. Kallner also expressed gratitude for Sa’ar’s role in facilitating the recognition, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance the Golan’s international profile. As part of a larger strategy to expand ties with Latin America, Israel’s foreign ministry designated 2026 as the “Year of Latin America.” This initiative includes increased diplomatic engagement and cultural exchanges with countries in the region. Sa’ar’s recent visit to South America underscored Israel’s interest in deepening relationships with nations such as Colombia, which has shown increasing support for Israel’s positions on various international matters. The timing of Colombia’s recognition coincided with a major natural disaster in the country. Just hours after the announcement, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, resulting in at least 100 fatalities and numerous injuries. In response, Israel offered assistance to the affected areas, demonstrating solidarity with Colombia during the crisis.
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