'We proved that not all occupied territory has to be returned'

A senior diplomatic source said on Tuesday said United States recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights establishes a principle that allows Israel to hold an occupied territory. The source explained, "It is a huge breach against Iran that the United States gives us absolute backing. This is a strong and principled backup - Israel can hold an occupied territory in a defensive war. This is important historically and politically."

The official continued, "In Washington, we proved that not every occupied territory has to be returned. The Golan Heights were occupied as part of self-defense, "the official said," Everyone says that Israel cannot hold occupied territory, so here it is. It can."