Golan Heights

The Golan Heights is a hilly area that overlooks the Kinneret. It is famous for being the home of the famous Golan victory - USY normally skips that part of the tour.

For the nature lover the Golan has much to offer. Here, there are wolves and gazelles, squirrels and coneys. For the history buff, there are prehistoric sites and megalithic edifices dotted through the hills and valleys.

The Golan has been a potential bartering tool for Israel since its capture in 1967. However, relinquishing it to Syria could jeopardize its early-warning system against surprise attack. Israel has built radars on Mt. Hermon, the highest point in the region. If Israel withdrew from the Golan and had to relocate these facilities to the lowlands of the Galilee, they would lose much of their strategic effectiveness. One possible compromise might be a partial Israeli withdrawal, along the lines of its 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria. Another would be a complete withdrawal, with the Golan becoming a demilitarized zone.

For an interesting story about one of Israel's greatest spies who helped Israel capture the Golan, visit Eli Cohen.

• The Golan Heights - Information
• Golan Heights Visitor's Information
• Maps of the Golan