Trump Makes Annexation Kosher

I still remember our feeling of relief in Israel after the Golan Heights were conquered in the 1967 Six-Day-War. With the Golan in Israeli hands, the Syrian army would no longer overlook Israel’s Upper Galilee from its military posts strategically situated high above. The Golan was green, dotted with apple and cherry orchards, it had water (which we were short of) and even a skiable mountain (which we did not have). The general view in Israel was that it was not to be returned to Syria. Moreover, unlike the West Bank and Gaza, the Golan was only sparsely populated, which meant that it could be controlled without difficulties.

Fourteen years later, in 1981, contrary to international law, Israel annexed the Golan. The annexation of the Golan – which the international community considers to be occupied Syrian territory ­ – was never recognised by other countries. Until last week: A few days ago, in an attempt to bolster Netanyahu’s chances in the coming elections in Israel, President Trump announced that the USA would recognise Israel’s act of territorial appropriation.  

The breakup and chaos in Syria make the return of the Golan Heights to Syria more unlikely than ever. And yet, its annexation remains illegal. That Trump’s America should endorse brute force and illegal acts by Israel is not surprising. Kindred spirits, Netanyahu and Trump, have developed a close relationship and the Jewish lobby in the US is alive and kicking.