Gold coast

Golan Heights

The Golan Heights is a region located in the Levant, spanning about 1,800 square kilometers. The area is recognized internationally as part of Syria, but the majority of the Golan Heights has been occupied and administered by Israel since the Six-Day War in 1967.

Geography

The Golan Heights is a plateau located in the southwestern part of Syria. It is bordered by Mount Hermon in the north, the Yarmouk River in the south, the Sea of Galilee and Hula Valley in the west, and the Raqqa Governorate in the east.

History

The Golan Heights has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. It has been inhabited by various cultures, including the Canaanites, Israelites, Arameans, Assyrians, Babylonians, and Persians. In the modern era, the Golan Heights has been a point of conflict between Israel and Syria, particularly during the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War.

Political Status

The political status of the Golan Heights is a contentious issue. While the international community recognizes the region as Syrian territory, Israel has maintained control over most of the area since 1967. In 1981, Israel passed the Golan Heights Law, effectively annexing the territory, a move that was condemned by the United Nations Security Council in Resolution 497.

Demographics

The population of the Golan Heights is diverse, with a mix of Druze, Alawites, Sunni Muslims, and Jewish Israelis. The majority of the Druze and Alawites reside in the northern part of the region, while Jewish Israelis live in settlements throughout the area.

Economy

The economy of the Golan Heights is primarily based on agriculture, with vineyards, orchards, and cattle farming being the main industries. The region is also known for its production of wine, apples, and beef.

See Also

• Six-Day War
• Yom Kippur War
• Israeli-occupied territories
• Syrian Civil War