Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro has condemned the new government's decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, arguing that the territory remains part of Syria under international law.

Petro criticized President Abelardo de la Espriella's administration after it announced on Aug. 10 that Colombia would recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, a move that marked a major shift in the country's Middle East policy.

The former president said most Colombians do not support the decision, adding that the Golan Heights should continue to be regarded as Syrian territory.

Petro also repeated allegations that Israel interfered in Colombia's presidential election, claiming Israeli technology and political influence were used to affect the outcome. He further alleged that the new administration was closely aligned with both Israeli and U.S. interests.

The former president has previously challenged the election results in court, alleging irregularities and accusing private firms of playing a role in the campaign. Authorities have not publicly presented evidence supporting those claims.

Quoting a statement from Qatar criticizing Colombia's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Petro apologized to Arab nations and Muslims for the policy change, saying it did not reflect the views of many Colombians.

During his presidency, Petro was one of Latin America's strongest critics of Israel and repeatedly voiced support for the Palestinian cause. The decision by the new Colombian government to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights represents a sharp departure from his administration's foreign policy.

The Golan Heights, captured by Israel from Syria during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war and later annexed, are regarded by most of the international community as occupied Syrian territory. The annexation has not been widely recognized under international law.(ILKHA)