President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States will formally recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights.
“After 52 years it is time for the United States to fully recognize Israel’s Sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which is of critical strategic and security importance to the State of Israel and Regional Stability!” the president tweeted.
Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967 captured Golan Heights from Syria, and effectively annexed the territory in 1981.
During a meeting between Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday in Israel, Netanyahu urged the United States to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the area.
Netanyahu praised Trump’s decision shortly after the president’s announcement.
“At a time when Iran seeks to use Syria as a platform to destroy Israel, President Trump boldly recognizes Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights,” Netanyahu tweeted. “Thank you President Trump! @realDonaldTrump”`
Netanyahu will meet with Trump at the White House for a working meeting on March 25 to “discuss their countries’ shared interests and actions in the Middle East.” The prime minister will also attend a White House dinner on March 26.
Netanyahu’s trip to the White House comes several weeks ahead of the Israel elections, where the prime minister is facing a tough reelection battle.
