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Source: https://www.jpost.com/Opinion/The-security-significance-of-annexing-the-Jordan-Valley-615350
The Unique Geographic Features of the Jordan Valley Provide Israel with Defensible Borders
(Jerusalem Post) Andrew Lovy - The Jordan Valley serves as Israel's frontline of defense from any attacks coming from the east. Israel has a width of 9 miles at its narrowest from the Mediterranean to the Green Line. However, Israel's width from the Mediterranean to the Jordan River is 40 miles, which provides greater strategic depth to withstand an attack. Likewise, the unique geographical features of the Jordan Valley provide Israel with defensible borders. The Jordan Valley rises from an area that lies 1,300 feet below sea level to the eastern slopes of the West Bank mountain ridge, which at its highest point stands around 3,600 feet above sea level. The Jordan Valley thus creates a 4,000-foot topographical barrier. The Jordan Valley contains only five mountain passages, which makes it easier for Israel to defend against attacks from the east. Moreover, Israeli control in the Jordan Valley enables it to prevent terrorist infiltrations and the importation of weapons into the West Bank.