Qatar and 17 Countries Condemn Colombia's Jerusalem Embassy Opening, Call for Reversal

The Foreign Ministers of Qatar and 17 other Arab and Islamic countries have strongly condemned Colombia's inauguration of its embassy in Jerusalem, calling on the Colombian government to reverse the decision and uphold its obligations under international law.

In a joint statement issued on Friday, 16 October 2026, the Foreign Ministers of Qatar, Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Türkiye and Yemen expressed their unequivocal rejection of the move.

The ministers described Colombia's decision as contrary to relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and warned that it undermines international efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution.

They reaffirmed their position that any measure or decision intended to alter the legal or historical status of occupied Jerusalem, or to recognise the city as Israel's capital, is null and void and has no legal effect.

The statement referred specifically to United Nations Security Council Resolutions 476 and 478, both adopted in 1980, which reject attempts to change Jerusalem's character or status and call on countries to withdraw their diplomatic missions from the city.

The ministers emphasised that Jerusalem forms part of the Palestinian territory occupied in 1967, reiterating the importance of respecting its legal and historical status in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council and General Assembly resolutions.

They also urged the Colombian government to reconsider and reverse its decision, comply with its obligations under international law and refrain from taking measures that could prejudice the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

The statement reaffirmed support for the Palestinian people's right to establish an independent and sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The joint declaration reflects a collective diplomatic position by Qatar and the participating countries in support of international resolutions concerning Jerusalem and efforts to achieve a lasting peace through the two-state solution.

--

About Qatar Living:

Since 2005, Qatar Living has been the trusted destination for everything Qatar. As the country's largest online community and marketplace, Qatar Living connects people with opportunities through jobs, property, vehicles, services, classifieds, events, local insights, and breaking news. Trusted by residents, newcomers, visitors, and businesses alike, Qatar Living brings Qatar together in one place.

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial