The Golan Heights is undoubtedly one of the most important pieces of real estate in the Middle East. Israel has controlled the region since 1967, however that could change. Recently there has been talk among Israeli officials of giving the Golan Heights back to Syria. What could possibly motivate Israel to give up such an important strategic asset? Before we answer this question, let's take a moment to examine Israel's current predicament.
Syria and Israel have technically been at war for the last 60 years, and Syria has yet to officially recognize the Jewish state. Formal peace negotiations between the two nations fell apart in January of 2000. Today, for the first time in more than seven years, the two nations are taking (although not directly). The talks are being mediated by Turkey, so the two sides have yet to sit down and negotiate face-to-face. However the current dialogue is seen as an important first step in what will probably be a very long and difficult process. Perhaps the most controversial issue on the table is that of the Golan Heights.
Strategic Importance
Israel captured Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 six-day war. Syria tried to recapture the land ...   more »

Residents of West Bank settlement clash with IDF, Judea and Samaria police officers, as reports of violent acts stream in from Adi-Ad outpost, village of Burin, Shilo Junction
Efrat Weiss
A series of violent incidents involving settlers swept through the West Bank Thursday, as dozens of settlers clashed with IDF and police forces, stoned cars and vandalized Palestinian property. 
The gravest incident of the day occurred in the West Bank settlement of Yitzhar, when during the riot a settler was able to snatch a weapon away from an IDF soldier standing next to him and began firing in midair. A second settler began firing in midair as well. No injuries or damage were reported; both men were arrested.
History of Violence   
Police forces, settlers clash in Yitzhar  / Efrat Weiss  
Riots erupt as police forces, Civil Administration officers arrive to tear down illegal structure in settlement. Rightist Baruch Marzel: 'Police must be severely judged'     
Eralier Thursday, the Judea and Samaria Police received reports of settlers rioting in the West Bank village of Burin, near Nablus.
Original Source
   more »