Why are the Golan Heights of such strategic importance to Israel?

> - High elevation; commands overlooking of significant portions of Southern Lebanon, Western Syria, and Northern Jordan.

Security:

> - Located on northern border

> - Provides early warning system

> - Allows control of major access road into Israel

Water Resources:

>- Headwaters of Jordan River on Mt. Hermon

>- Water reservoirs within its territory are source of domestic water consumption for Israel and Palestinian territories on the West Bank, and irrigation for much of Jordan

Historical Claim:

>- Captured from Syria during 1967 Six-Day War; subsequently annexed (annexation not fully recognized)