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Trump to recognize Israel’s sovereignty over Golan Heights

By REBECCA MORIN

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States will formally recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights.

"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 president tweeted.

Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the Six-Day War in 1967, and effectively annexed the territory in 1981.

During a meeting between Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday in Israel, Netanyahu urged the United States to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the area, The New York Times reported.

Netanyahu praised Trump's decision shortly after the president's announcement.

"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," Netanyahu tweeted. "Thank you President Trump! @realDonaldTrump"`

Netanyahu will meet with Trump at the White House for a working meeting on March 25 to “discuss their countries’ shared interests and actions in the Middle East." The prime minister will also attend a White House dinner on March 26.

Netanyahu's trip to the White House comes several weeks ahead of the Israeli elections, where the prime minister is facing a tough reelection battle.

While speaking to reporters on Thursday in Israel prior to Trump's announcement, Pompeo declined to confirm whether the U.S. was considering recognizing Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights.

"I don’t have anything to say about that," he told reporters. "The administration’s considering lots of things always, and I try to make sure we get to answers before we talk about them publicly."

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who has strongly advocated for Israel, called on Congress to also recognize the president's request.

"President Trump’s decision to recognize the Golan as part of Israel is strategically wise and overall awesome," Graham tweeted. "Well done, Mr. President! Now I, along with Senator @tedcruz, will try to get Congress to follow your lead."