The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Tuesday expressing strong condemnation of a recent decision by Colombia to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The ministry asserted that the territory is an integral part of Syria and that attempts to legitimize the Israeli occupation, which has persisted since 1967, carry no legal weight.
Highlighting the legal implications, the statement characterized the move as a grave violation of international law, specifically referencing UN Security Council Resolution 497. Türkiye further called upon the international community to meet its responsibilities by working to end the Israeli occupation in southern Syria, including the Golan Heights, and to stop attacks that threaten Syrian sovereignty and stability. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the territorial integrity of Syria and fostering lasting peace within the country.
Colombia's official recognition of Israeli control over the region, which Israel unilaterally annexed in 1981, followed a series of policy shifts under new leadership. Abelardo de la Espriella, identified as Colombia's new pro-Israel president, recently ordered the suspension of plans to open an embassy in Palestine.
The move by Colombia has drawn criticism from several other regional nations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar, all of which have joined Syria in condemning the act as a breach of international law and established UN resolutions. The Golan Heights remain a central point of contention in international diplomatic disputes.
