Gary Fitleberg, December 23, 2004

Druze farmers from Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights soon will be able to export part of their apple surplus to Syrian merchants through the Kuneitra crossing for the first time following an Israeli-Syrian agreement.

The Druze apple growers approached Syrian authorities three months ago through the Red Cross, and received their consent.

Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz approved of the arrangement a few days ago, according to a lawyer representing the farmers. Farmers have been stuck with a large surplus due to favorable weather conditions that resulted in an unusually large yield.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.

Copyright © 2004 Gary Fitleberg