Colombia announced Monday it recognizes Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights—a dramatic diplomatic breakthrough that follows Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s weekend visit to the country for the inauguration of new President Abelardo de la Espriella, a friend of Israel. The historic decision came after Sa’ar met with the new president in Barranquilla last Thursday, a meeting that led to the extraordinary diplomatic achievement.
1+In its official statement, the Colombian government said that given the ongoing regional instability in the Middle East and the strategic importance of the Golan Heights to Israel’s security, it recognizes Israel’s sovereignty over the territory and its right to defend itself. Colombia noted that security threats against Israel have intensified significantly in recent years, reaching their peak with the horrific terror attack of October 7th, which underscores the importance of controlling the Golan. Foreign Minister Sa’ar thanked the Colombian president for his historic decision, noting that Israel is a small country without strategic depth, and defensible borders are essential to ensure the survival of the Jewish people in their homeland. Sa’ar also thanked his counterpart, Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar, for the professional cooperation, and declared he will continue working to get additional countries to join the United States and Colombia in recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan.
1+The dramatic move is part of a long list of breakthroughs in bilateral relations agreed upon during the talks, including full and immediate restoration of diplomatic relations, appointment of ambassadors, moving the embassy to Jerusalem, canceling visa requirements, and returning to a free trade agreement. The countries also agreed that Colombia will withdraw from South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and from the Hague group, alongside strengthening political, security, and economic ties. Sa’ar also spoke Monday with his counterpart Omar Bula Escobar, expressed deep solidarity with Colombia and its citizens following the severe earthquake that struck the country, and offered Israel’s full assistance. The diplomatic rapprochement is part of a broader effort Sa’ar is leading to deepen ties with Latin American countries—his office has designated 2026 as the “Year of Latin America” for strategic focus.