Qatar Denounces Colombia's Jerusalem Embassy Opening as Violation of International Law

Qatar has voiced strong condemnation over Colombia's decision to open an embassy in occupied Jerusalem, deeming the move a breach of international law and United Nations resolutions. Colombia is now the tenth country or entity to establish a diplomatic presence in the occupied city.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Qatar stated on Thursday, "Qatar expresses its condemnation and denunciation of Colombia’s opening of its embassy to Israel in the occupied city of Jerusalem, considering this step a violation of international law and relevant international legitimacy resolutions, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 478 of 1980." The ministry further emphasized Qatar's stance, adding, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms Qatar’s rejection of any measures that would alter the legal and historical status of the city of Jerusalem."

Qatar urged the international community to actively oppose any attempts to impose a new reality in occupied Jerusalem, stressing the importance of safeguarding the city’s legal and historical status, along with the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

Colombia officially opened its embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday, October 14th. This action follows Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella's decision to reinstate diplomatic relations with Israel, overturning a previous severance of ties by his predecessor, Gustavo Petro, in 2024. The opening places Colombia among nations such as the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Paraguay, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Kosovo, Nauru, and Somaliland, which have diplomatic missions in the occupied city.

UN Security Council Resolution 478, adopted in 1980, called for states to withdraw their diplomatic missions from Jerusalem after Israel passed a law proclaiming the city its undivided capital.