UPSC Notes

Golan Heights Dispute

PYQs

6

Articles

1

Momentum

17

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

A classic case study of territorial disputes, international law, UN peacekeeping, and the role of international recognition in shaping geopolitical realities.

The Golan Heights is a strategically important plateau in the Levant region, historically part of Syria. It was captured by Israel during the 1967 Six-Day War and subsequently annexed in 1981, a move largely unrecognized by the international community, making it a central point of contention in the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Strategic Importance

Provides a commanding view over surrounding plains, crucial for military advantage and water resources.

Capture and Annexation

Seized by Israel from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War and unilaterally annexed in 1981.

International Recognition

Largely unrecognized internationally, though the U.S. and Colombia have recognized Israeli sovereignty.

UN Presence

A UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) monitors a buffer zone since 1974.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternational Relations
Conceptual areaPhysical & Regional Geography

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
United Nations Security CouncilCondemns annexation
UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)Monitors buffer zone
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Prelims angle: Terminology-based question

Quick revision

  • Captured by Israel from Syria in 1967.
  • Annexed by Israel in 1981, largely unrecognized.
  • Strategic importance: military vantage, water.
  • UNSC Resolution 497 declares annexation 'null and void'.
  • UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) present.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

International RelationsPhysical & Regional Geography
Prelims 2017· Conceptual understanding, Policy measures

Syria FM meets Mossad chief in Jordan: sources

24 Aug 2026 · The Golan Heights is a strategically vital plateau captured by Israel from Syria in 1967 and annexed in 1981. Its status remains a major point of international dispute, with limited international recognition of Israeli sovereignty and a UN peacekeeping presence.

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UPSC Prelims PYQs on Golan Heights Dispute

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