World
What Do You Know About Golan Heights?
By Staff Illustrative Storyteller · July 29, 2024
Golan Heights
Today, Golan Heights is in the news. It's come under attack by aerial assualt. But what do we know about the region? Is it Israel or Syria? Who lives there and who controls it? Sgt. Ori Shifrin/IDF Spokesperson's Unit
Geography & Location
The Golan Heights is a plateau located in the Levant, spanning about 1,800 square kilometers (690 sq mi). It is situated in southwestern Syria and borders Israel to the west, Lebanon to the north, and Jordan to the south. CIA
Historical Context
The Golan Heights has a long and complex history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. It has been controlled by various civilizations, including the Canaanites, Israelites, Arameans, and Romans. Picryl
1967 Six-Day War
During the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria. The region has been under Israeli control since then, despite ongoing international disputes over its status. Public Domain/Wikimedia
Israeli Annexation
In 1981, Israel passed the Golan Heights Law, effectively annexing the territory. However, this move has not been recognized by the United Nations or most countries, and it is considered occupied Syrian land. Public Domain
Strategic Importance
The Golan Heights holds significant strategic value due to its elevated terrain, which provides a vantage point over surrounding areas. It also serves as a crucial water resource, feeding into the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. Matan Portnoy, IDF Spokesperson Unit
Different Peoples
The Golan Heights are home to many distinct ethnic and cultural groups living under Israeli occupation. BasilLeaf/Wikimedia
Demographics
The population of the Golan Heights includes Israeli settlers and Druze Arabs. As of recent estimates, about 50,000 people live in the region, with roughly half being Israeli Jews and the other half being Druze and other minorities. Northern Lights 119/Flickr
UN Disengagement Observer Force
The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has been stationed in the Golan Heights since 1974 to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Syria and to supervise the disengagement of their forces. Ministerie van Defensie, NL/Wikimedia
Economic Activities
Agriculture, tourism, and wine production are major economic activities in the Golan Heights. The region is known for its fertile soil, which supports vineyards, orchards, and various crops. MILNER MOSH/Israel Government Press Office/Flickr
Environmental Significance
The Golan Heights features diverse ecosystems, including forests, rivers, and volcanic formations. It is home to several nature reserves and parks, which attract tourists and conservationists alike. CIA/Public Domain