Golan Heights - Key Facts

Why in news

Israel's government on December 15 approved a plan to double the population of the annexed Golan Heights.
 

About Golan Heights

• Geography: The Golan Heights is a strategic, hilly region in southwestern Syria, overlooking the upper Jordan River valley and the Sea of Galilee.
• Size and Shape: Extends 71 km from north to south and 43 km from east to west, covering an area of 1,150 sq. km, with a roughly boat-shaped topography.
• Boundaries: It is bordered by the Jordan River and Sea of Galilee to the west, Mount Hermon to the north, Wadi Al-Ruqqād River to the east, and Yarmūk River to the south.
• Historical Context: Previously part of Syria, it came under Israeli occupation during the 1967 Six-Day War. The Syrian population largely fled during this conflict.
• 1973 War and Armistice: Syria's attempt to recapture the region in the 1973 Middle East War was unsuccessful. A ceasefire agreement and UN observer force were established in 1974.
• Israeli Annexation: Israel unilaterally annexed the Golan Heights in December 1981, a move considered illegal under international law but disputed by Israel.
• Settlements: More than 30 Israeli settlements are located in the Golan Heights, home to about 20,000 Israelis. These settlements coexist with 20,000 Druze Arabs who remained after Israeli control.
• Strategic Importance: The Golan Heights holds significant military and geopolitical value, providing a commanding view of Damascus and northern Israel. It is also a crucial source of water for the region, with rainwater feeding into the Jordan River.