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Hi there

I'm planning to be in Israel in early November (female, solo traveller) and as part of my itinerary would like to do some walking in the Golan Heights. The news coming out of there seems to be quite volatile at the moment (just this morning Syrian shelling seems to have taken place, and last week Israeli soldiers started a military exercise there?)

Obviously I'll be keeping an eye on the situation before I go (!) but what's it like at the moment, so I have something gauge any future activity by? Would it be a daft idea to head there at the moment?

Other question about the political situation is that I will be in Israel during the US elections - I can't imagine that there will be any volatility purely as a result of that vote, but am I being naive?

Many thanks and any insights exceedingly welcome!

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There was a rogue rocket the fell in a field in the Golan but by and large it has been quiet. The military excercises are more a precaution, but things have been quiet. I have family up there hnd have heard nothing about problems of late. but always keep abreast of the news and laert, becaus thinsg change quicklt in that part of the world

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Thank you ZedisDead - that's really helpful. Will keep planning accordingly!

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3

just keep on top of the news. The Golan is beautiful. Be sure to stop into one of the Druse villages for lunch, It's a real treat.

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4

I think smd was referring/reflecting the recent news reports about Golan in Syrian territory where there have been clashes between the Syrian Army and the Syrian Liberation Army in recent days.

Zed Israel was holding training excercises in the Golan area too in recent days.
cheers

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5

The rocket that fell into Golan seems to have landed there by mistake. For the time being it's quiet and there is no reason to cancel your trip there.

In Golan you can visit the magnificent natural parks and archeological sites. The ones I like best are Nimrod, Banias and Gamla (the latter is a great hike). You can also pay a visit to the Druzes at Majda Al Shams, the big village which is located right at the fence with Syria. (the Golan Height is Syrian territory and the Druzes living there are all Syrian nationals, even though the Golan has been occupied by Israel since 167, after Tsahal defeated Syria).

As for the US election, I really can't see how it could impact on the political climate in Israel, Golan or in the Palestinian territory. For now the main issue in the region is a possible war with Iran.

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Thank you all so much for your insights and tips. Really want to see Banias in particular - looks spectacular - but also just to experience the renowned beauty of the region.

Thanks Marcopoloo for clarifying my post - am I right in thinking though that this is accidental spillover at this stage, and as long as I stay a reasonable distance from the border it should be fine?

Really looking forward to it!

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@marco,I'm sure it it was a precautionary exercise. Good militaries lie rot be prepared for possible but not probable scenarios. One cannot ignore the possibility of soil over.

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CATW--it was not necessary to add YOUR political opinion, At one point the Golan Heights belonged to Syria. However, they lost it in a war that they started. All over the world borders have changed as the result of wars. This is one of those instances. Get over it!

BTW--the Israeli military frequently hold exercises. It is the only way to train. Militaries around the world do the same thing!

Edited by: alhaderech

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The recent military exercise was part of an annual work plan decided upon a long time ago.

You can travel safely all over the Golan Heights - even the border area. If something drastic starts up with Syria (unlikely, but possible) you won't be allowed anywhere near the trouble.

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