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 during the 1973 Middle East war, but was unsuccessful. Both nations signed an armistice in 1974 and an UN observation force was put into place along the ceasefire line. Israel annexed the Golan Heights in 1981, but that action has not received international recognition.
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