President Trump backs Israeli right over Golan Heights
President Donald Trump of United States of America has stated that it is time that US backs the sovereignty of Israel over the occupied parts of Golan Heights. The announcement is a testament to a shift in the US foreign policy. It has come at a time when the Israeli Prime Minister is slated to visit the White House in the coming week.
In a tweet, President Trump has stated that “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 tweet did not give any further details. The tweet has followed the visit of Mike Pompeo to Jerusalem. It was during the 1967 Six-Day War with Syria that the territory of Golan Heights was captured by Israel. It was finally annexed in 1981 in a move which never bagged the recognition of International Community. Within minutes of the announcement made by President Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel tweeted in appreciation, “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. Thank you President Trump!”
Netanyahu also mentioned that President Trump had written history with this announcement. US has pleased Israeli in more than one ways in recent times. Apart from the open policies towards the Palestinians, US has also taken a tough stance on Iran which is all in favour of the Israeli PM. Netanyahu also said, “You could imagine what would have happened if Israel were not in the Golan. You would have Iran on the shores of Sea of Galilee”.
President Trump’s decision on Golan is in stark violation of the UN Security Council Resolution 242. Latter does not recognise any territory which has been acquired by war as all the states have the right to live in peace.
On his state visit, Mike Pompeo appreciated the warm ties shared by both the states. He also reiterated that US will keep up the pressure on Iran. The reassurances gave a boost to the public image of PM Netanyahu at a time when he faces a tight re-election. Pompeo is not due to meet the Palestinian leaders as has been done by the previous people who have served in the same position.
Palestinian President’s spokesman, Nabil Abu Rudeineh has said that the recent visit of US Secretary of State has added more obstacles to the peace process.
