Ankara: The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned Colombia’s decision to “recognize Israeli sovereignty” over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights. In a statement released last night, the ministry said, “We strongly condemn the announcement by Colombia aimed at legitimizing the Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights, which are an integral part of Syria.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that such unilateral attempts, which constitute a grave violation of international law, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 497, have no legal standing. The ministry reiterated its call for the international community to fulfill its responsibilities to end the Israeli occupation of southern Syria, including the Golan Heights, and the attacks targeting the country’s sovereignty and stability.

It stressed that Turkey will continue its support for preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and establishing lasting peace and stability in the country. The Colombian government announced last Monday its recognition of “Israeli sovereignty” over the Golan Heights, which has been occupied Syrian territory since June 1967.