Golan Heights: Five keys to understanding the dispute

Natural resources

In this arid region, water takes on critical importance. One-third of Israel’s freshwater supply originates in the Golan Heights, from which it travels to the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River.

Ceding control of the Heights to Syria would give Syria access to the Sea of Galilee’s eastern shore and one of Israel’s two key sources of water.

The Golan is also fertile and among Israel’s most important sources of domestic beef, fruit, and wine.

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