In a significant geopolitical move, the newly installed far-right government of Colombia has recognized Israel's claim over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, making it the second nation after the United States to do so. This recognition comes just days after the inauguration of President Abelardo de la Espriella and was announced by Colombia's Foreign Ministry on Monday. The move is seen as a strategic decision aimed at bolstering Israel's national defense, with the ministry stating that maintaining Israel's control over the Golan Heights is an essential component of its security. The Golan Heights, illegally annexed by Israel following the 1967 Six-Day War, has been a contentious issue in international relations, with the United Nations recognizing it as part of Syria. This recognition by Colombia comes amidst Israel's expanding military presence in Syria, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's government in December 2024. Israel has moved troops into a UN-monitored buffer zone and seized strategic territories, including the Syrian side of Jabal al-Sheikh (Mount Hermon), overlooking Damascus. The recognition by Colombia is seen as a manifestation of President de la Espriella's campaign promise to strengthen ties with the US and Israel in order to combat armed groups within his country. This move signals a shift in Colombian foreign policy, with the new president aiming to restore diplomatic relations and arms imports from Israel, after his predecessor, Gustavo Petro, criticized Israel's actions in Gaza and severed ties. Additionally, President de la Espriella has cancelled Petro's plans to open an embassy in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank.