LONDON: Colombia on Monday recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Syrian Arab Republic’s Golan Heights. It is only the second UN member state to do so, after the US officially recognized Israel’s claim in 2019. The announcement was one of the first major foreign-policy decisions by the country’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, after taking office on Friday. It was praised by Israel and drew condemnation from Syria, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Qatar.

Colombia's foreign ministry stated that it recognizes Israeli control over the area as “an essential component of its national defense and its ability to protect and safeguard its…

Newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella announces move days after taking office, capping a rapid restoration of ties with Israel and reversing diplomatic and legal…