Omanghana
Egypt has strongly condemned Colombia’s decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, describing the move as a violation of international law and established United Nations resolutions.
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella announced on Monday, August 10, 2026, that his government would formally recognize the strategic territory as part of Israel.
De la Espriella, a conservative who assumed office only days before the announcement, defended the policy change by citing Israel’s right to protect itself amid continuing instability in the Middle East.
The decision represents a sharp reversal of the foreign policy pursued by former President Gustavo Petro, whose administration adopted one of Latin America’s strongest positions against Israel’s conduct in the region.
Colombia has consequently become the second United Nations member state to recognize Israel’s claim to the Golan Heights. The United States became the first when President Donald Trump formally acknowledged Israeli sovereignty over the territory in 2019.
Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Tuesday, August 11, rejecting the Colombian government’s decision.
According to Egypt’s State Information Service, Cairo described the recognition as a breach of international law and relevant international resolutions. The Egyptian government reaffirmed that the Golan Heights remains an integral part of Syrian territory.
Egypt also warned that unilateral decisions recognizing Israel’s annexation could undermine regional stability, weaken respect for the United Nations Charter and damage efforts to establish lasting peace in the Middle East.
The Golan Heights is a strategically important plateau in southwestern Syria. Israel captured most of the territory from Syria during the 1967 Six-Day War and formally annexed it in 1981.
The annexation has not been recognized by the United Nations or most countries. The international community continues to regard the area as occupied Syrian territory and considers Israel’s attempt to impose its laws and administration there legally invalid.
Egypt, widely regarded as possessing one of Africa’s strongest military forces, has maintained formal diplomatic relations with Israel since the two countries signed a peace treaty in 1979. However, Cairo continues to support Syria’s claim to the Golan Heights and the broader international position rejecting Israel’s annexation.
Source: Omanghana
