The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have recently inaugurated a new observation point in the southern Golan Heights, overlooking the border triangle of Israel, Syria, and Jordan. The observation point, which is located near the ancient Yarmouk Fortress, offers panoramic views of the natural and historical landscape of the region. The observation point was set up by the soldiers of the Golan and Hermon brigades, as part of the “Nature Defense Forces” initiative, which aims to expose and preserve the nature and heritage of the Golan Heights.
A glimpse into the past and present of the border region
The observation point is situated adjacent to the Yarmouk Fortress, also known as the Ruqqad Fortress, which dates back to the third century BCE. The fortress was likely established by the Greek Ptolemaic kingdom as a defense against the Seleucid kingdom or eastern tribes. The fortress overlooks the Ruqqad Stream, which defines the eastern Golan border and runs parallel to the Israel-Syria border. It also overlooks the Yarmouk River, which serves as the Syria-Jordan border, and later, after meeting the Ruqqad Stream, the Israel-Jordan border.
From the observation point, visitors can see the confluence of the two streams, as well as the tri-border area where Israel, Syria, and Jordan meet. The observation point also provides a glimpse into the current situation in Syria, where civil war has been raging for over a decade. The observation point is located on the border fence between Israel and Syria, and visitors can see the Syrian villages and towns that are controlled by different factions, such as the Syrian regime, rebel groups, or Islamic State militants.
A collaboration between soldiers and environmental organizations
The observation point was inaugurated last week by Colonel Akhsan Daksa, the commander of the Golan and Hermon brigades, who planted an olive tree at the site. The observation point was set up by the soldiers of the brigades, along with benches and picnic tables. The soldiers also received information and guidance from the Nature and Parks Authority and the Israel Antiquities Authority about the nature and history of the area.
The observation point is part of the “Nature Defense Forces” project, which is a collaboration between the IDF, the Nature and Parks Authority, and other environmental organizations. The project aims to expose soldiers and civilians to the nature, landscape, and heritage values of the Golan Heights, and to foster a deeper connection and responsibility for their preservation. The project also involves cleaning and maintaining nature reserves, planting trees, restoring historical sites, and conducting educational activities.
How to visit the observation point
The observation point is open to visitors every day, after coordination with the brigade’s operations room at 04-6977293. Visitors can access the perimeter road opposite the entrance to Moshav Eliad, towards the east. They can then drive to the fence, turn right, and drive next to the border fence until they see an antenna and signs for the triangle observation point.
The observation point is one of several attractions in the Golan Heights that offer stunning views of nature and history. Other attractions include Mount Bental, which overlooks Syria and offers a view of an abandoned Syrian military base; Mount Hermon, which is Israel’s highest peak and a popular ski resort; Gamla Nature Reserve, which features a waterfall, a vulture colony, and ancient ruins; and Banias Nature Reserve, which is home to one of Israel’s largest springs and a Crusader fortress.
