New far-right Colombian gov't recognizes Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights

The Colombian government has acknowledged Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, an area seized by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed in 1981. This move makes Colombia the second nation to recognize this claim, following the United States. Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella, a far-right leader supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, welcomed the decision, praising the Colombian president's leadership and commitment to Israel's security.

The announcement came shortly after the earthquake in Colombia, which claimed at least 47 lives and left the nation in recovery. De La Espriella expressed appreciation for Israel's readiness to assist Colombia, following a meeting between the Israeli foreign minister and the Colombian president. This decision marks a significant shift from the previous administration, led by Gustavo Petro, who severed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2024, accusing the country of committing genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel has denied.

De La Espriella has pledged to restore diplomatic relations with Israel. In response to De La Espriella's election victory, Colombian President Astudillo congratulated him on social media, expressing hope that the new government will help strengthen the relationship between the two nations and inviting De La Espriella to visit Israel.