Trump reaffirms 'Israeli' sovereignty over Golan Heights at White House Hanukkah party
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Trump reaffirms U.S. recognition of 'Israeli' sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, calling it one of his major foreign policy achievements.
- Regional tensions rise as 'Israel' strengthens its presence in southern Syria and Syria’s government demands withdrawal from the Golan Heights.
Speaking to supporters and Jewish leaders at the White House on Tuesday night, President Donald Trump highlighted what he called one of his most significant foreign policy achievements: the 2019 recognition of 'Israeli' sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
"I signed it over"
During his speech, Trump recounted the behind-the-scenes process of the 2019 proclamation, saying he asked then-U.S. Ambassador to 'Israel' David Friedman for a brief explanation of why the territory was strategically important. “After two minutes, I said, ‘I understand. You need it so badly for so many other reasons… you need it for defense,’” Trump said. “I learned enough, and I signed the Golan Heights over to Israel. Nobody thought that was possible to get.”
He contrasted his administration’s decisive action with decades of discussion by previous U.S. leaders, claiming that while the issue had been debated for 70 years, he was the one who “got it done.”
Strategic Context in 2025
The comments come amid heightened regional tensions following the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria in late 2024. 'Israeli' media reports that the Israeli Occupation Forces have expanded their presence in southern Syria, establishing a buffer zone reportedly against militant groups along the border.
Meanwhile, Syria’s government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, has reiterated that no long-term security or diplomatic agreements can occur until 'Israel' withdraws from the Golan Heights, a position explicitly rejected by Trump’s remarks.
'Israeli' Reactions and Recognition
In 'Israel', Trump’s renewed emphasis on the Golan has been met with praise from the government and right-leaning organizations. On December 11, 2025, just days before his White House speech, the 'Israel' Allies Foundation awarded Trump a “Lifetime Achievement Award,” citing his role in the Golan Heights recognition, the Abraham Accords, and the U.S. embassy move to Jerusalem as transformative diplomatic achievements. 'Israeli' media highlighted that Trump’s statements reinforce the U.S. stance that the annexation is permanent and non-negotiable.
Historical Background
- 1967: 'Israel' captures the Golan Heights from Syria during the Six-Day War; territory considered occupied.
- 1981: 'Israel' passes the Golan Heights Law, effectively annexing the area; UN declares it “null and void.”
- 2019: President Trump signs a proclamation recognizing 'Israeli' sovereignty; U.S. becomes first country to do so.
- 2024: Assad regime falls; 'Israel' establishes a buffer zone in southern Syria.
- 2025: Trump reaffirms the 2019 decision as a permanent pillar of U.S. policy, amid ongoing regional disputes.
Trump’s remarks underscore the continued strategic importance of the Golan Heights and signal the U.S. commitment to 'Israel’s' claims despite evolving security and political dynamics in the region.
