Baghdad, Aug 11 (Petra) -- Iraq's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned on Tuesday the decision by Colombia to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights.

In a statement, the ministry expressed its firm rejection and condemnation of the Colombian decision, emphasizing that the Golan Heights are occupied Syrian territory and that no party holds the authority to alter its legal status or grant legitimacy to the occupation.

"Colombia's decision carries no legal effect and does not alter the fact that the Golan is an integral part of the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic," the statement read.

The ministry warned that recognizing the sovereignty of an occupying power over occupied territory sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the principles of international law and the U.N. Charter, particularly the principle of respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Iraq reaffirmed its unwavering stance against Israeli occupation of Arab lands and reiterated its full solidarity with the Syrian Arab Republic in preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

//Petra// AF