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Source: The post is based on the article “Golan Heights:India votes in favour of UNGA resolution that expresses concern over Israel not withdrawing from Syrian Golan” published in “The Hindu” on 29th November 2023
Why in the News?
India has voted in favour of a draft resolution in the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) that expressed deep concern over Israel not withdrawing from the Golan Heights.
What are Golan Heights?
| Specifications | Details |
| What is it? | It is a region located in south-western Syria. |
| Controlled by | 1) Golan Heights was part of Syria until 1967. But Israel captured it in the 1967 Six Day War and annexed it in 1981. 2) This move was not recognised internationally, but the US did so unilaterally in 2019. |
| Importance of Golan Heights | Strategic Importance: Southern Syria is clearly visible from the top of the Golan Heights. This gives Israel an advantage for monitoring Syrian movements. |
| Irrigation Importance: The area is a key source of water. Rainwater from the Golan’s catchment feeds into the Jordan River. | |
| Economic Importance: The land is fertile, and the volcanic soil is used to cultivate vineyards and orchards and raise cattle. The Golan is also home to Israel’s only ski resort. | |
| Syria’s stand on Golan Heights | Syria has said that it will not agree to a peace deal with Israel unless it withdraws from the whole of the Golan Heights. |
UPSC Syllabus: Places in News
