Israel is working to normalize its relations with Arab countries with the help of the US, but its desire to establish diplomatic relations with Syria and Lebanon remains complicated by the dispute over the Golan Heights. Syria considers the Golan Heights as its integral part and is not willing to give it up. The region is strategically important for Israel, which could be a major obstacle to normalizing relations with Syria.

Israel is gradually normalizing its relations with Arab countries with the help of the US. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Monday that Israel wants to establish formal diplomatic relations with its long-time enemies Syria and Lebanon, but there can be no compromise on the status of the Golan Heights.
Syria holds special importance in the dispute with Iran. Iran has strengthened Hezbollah, the biggest group of its Axis of Resistance, through Syria and Syria has been the route for sending weapons to Lebanon. If Israel improves its relations with Syria, it will be a big blow to Iran. But the issue of Golan Heights can shatter Israel's dream.
A senior Syrian official, on condition of anonymity, told Reuters agency that Syria will never leave the Golan Heights, calling it an integral part of Syrian territory. Israel is also not ready to leave it.
Why is the Golan Heights important?Israel captured this area from Syria during the 1967 Six Day War. While most of the international community considers the Golan to be Syrian-occupied land, US President Donald Trump recognised Israeli sovereignty over it during his first term.
Golan Heights is a mountain range situated near the Israel border from where the Syrian capital Damascus can be directly monitored. Apart from this, its occupation also gives Israel immense natural benefits. Syria wants to liberate this region. In such a situation, this rock can come in the way of improving Israel's relations with Syria.
Arab countries are building relations with IsraelIn 2020, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco became the first Arab states to establish ties with Israel, following Jordan in 1994 and Egypt in 1979. The normalisation agreement with Israel was extremely unpopular in the Arab world.
Israeli Foreign Minister Saar said in a press conference in Jerusalem, "We are interested in engaging our neighbours, such as Syria and Lebanon, in a framework of peace and normalization, while protecting Israel's essential and security interests." He added, "The Golan will remain part of the Israeli state."
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