Current Affairs Quiz – August, 2024

Q 1.Who has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recently?

A. Suman Sharma
B. Rajiv Nayan
C. Pradeep Kumar Joshi
D. Preeti Sudan

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Preeti Sudan

Explanation

On 31 July 2024, President Droupadi Murmu appointed Preeti Sudan, a 1983 batch IAS officer and former Union Health Secretary, as the new Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), succeeding Dr. Manoj Soni. Sudan, the second woman to hold this position, has played key roles in government programs like Ayushman Bharat and Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao. The UPSC, established in 1950, is an independent constitutional body.

Q 2. Ashwini Ponappa, who recently announced her retirement, is associated with which sports?

A. Badminton
B. Hockey
C. Table Tennis
D. Football

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Badminton

Explanation

Indian badminton star Ashwini Ponnappa emotionally retired from the Olympic stage after her early exit at the Paris 2024 Games. Partnering with Tanisha Crasto, they lost their final match to Australia’s Setyana Mapasa and Angela Yu, ending their campaign with three consecutive losses. Ashwini, a three-time Olympian, is celebrated for her achievements with Jwala Gutta, including gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and bronze at the World Championships in 2011.

Q 3.What is ‘HAMAS’, recently mentioned in the news?

A. Russian Militant Group
B. Militant Palestinian Group
C. Secret Agency of China
D. Security Force of Ukraine

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Militant Palestinian Group

Explanation

Hamas political head Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran on 31 July 2024. He was attacked after attending the swearing-in of Iran’s new president, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. Hamas, a militant Palestinian group, aims to destroy Israel and establish an Islamic Palestinian state.

Q 4.Recently, which country has developed a Nano Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics (Nano-MIND) technology?

A. UK
B. France
C. Ukraine
D. South Korea

Show Answer

Answer:-D. South Korea

Explanation

Researchers from the Korean Institute of Basic Science, South Korea have developed Nano-MIND, a magnetogenetics technology that allows precise, remote control of brain circuits using magnetism. Tested on mice, it can activate specific neurons to alter behaviors such as maternal instincts and feeding. This breakthrough advances brain research and could impact brain-computer interfaces and treatments for neurological disorders.

Q 5. Zika Virus, which was seen in the news, is transmitted by which mosquito?

A. Culex mosquito
B. Aedes mosquito
C. Anopheles mosquito
D. Mansonia mosquito

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Aedes mosquito

Explanation

India’s Health Minister announced a new action plan to manage Zika virus Disease. Zika is a mosquito-borne RNA virus discovered in Uganda in 1947 and first reported in humans in 1952. It mainly affects tropical and subtropical regions and spreads through bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The plan aims to manage and control the virus’s impact effectively.

Q 6.‘Nacala Port’, recently seen in the news, is located in which country?

A. Ghana
B. Nigeria
C. Mozambique
D. Kenya

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Mozambique

Explanation

India resumed importing Tur dal from Mozambique’s Nacala Port after a disruption. Mozambique is a Southeast African country with a long Indian Ocean coastline, separated from Madagascar by the Mozambique Channel. It borders Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Eswatini. Major rivers include the Zambezi and Limpopo, and its highest peak is Mount Binga. Mozambique is rich in resources like gold, emeralds, copper, iron ore, and bauxite.

Q 7. Leqembi Drug, which was seen in the news, is used to treat which disease?

A. Alzheimer
B. Dengue
C. TB
D. Blood cancer

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Alzheimer

Explanation

A study found that Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi slowed disease progression over three years. Leqembi is an IV antibody therapy that removes beta-amyloid from the brain. Alzheimer’s is the most common dementia, starting with mild memory loss and potentially leading to severe communication and response issues. Symptoms typically appear after age 60, with the risk increasing with age.

Q 8. Recently, which country has become India’s second-largest Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supplier?

A. Iraq
B. Iran
C. Australia
D. US

Show Answer

Answer:-D. US

Explanation

The U.S. became India’s second-largest LNG supplier, overtaking the UAE, but Qatar still the largest supplier. LNG is growing as a green energy substitute. In 2023, the U.S. also became the world’s top LNG exporter, surpassing Qatar and Australia due to past investments in liquefaction. Increased U.S. supply is due to lower LNG prices and closer proximity to India via the Cape of Good Hope.

Q 9.Which ministry recently introduced ‘Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024’ in Lok Sabha?

A. Ministry of Home Affairs
B. Ministry of Civil Aviation
C. Ministry of Defence
D. Ministry of Power

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Ministry of Civil Aviation

Explanation

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Union Civil Aviation Minister. This bill aims to empower the government to set rules for investigating air accidents and incidents, and regulating aircraft design, manufacture, maintenance, use, and safety. The Aircraft Act of 1934 has been amended many times, creating confusion. This bill seeks to streamline and clarify these regulations.

Q 10.Ministry of Culture recently hosted ‘State Museum Conclave’ at which place?

A. Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
B. Udaipur, Rajasthan
C. Bhopal, MP
D. Ayodhya, UP

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

Explanation

Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the ‘State Museum Conclave on the upcoming Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum’ in New Delhi. The event aims to gather insights from stakeholders to develop a world-class museum. Minister highlighted India’s growing global interest and the need to showcase its heritage. The Yuga Yugeen Bharat Museum, part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project, will be the world’s largest museum.

Q 11.Chandipura Acute Viral Encephalitis (CHPV), recently seen in the news, is primarily transmitted by which species?

A. Lizard
B. Frog
C. Sandflies
D. Fish

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Sandflies

Explanation

In Gujarat, a Chandipura Virus (CHPV) outbreak has been reported since early July, with 137 suspected cases and 51 confirmed. CHPV, spread by sandflies, causes acute viral encephalitis with symptoms like high fever, headache, vomiting, and severe neurological issues. Viral encephalitis, which can result from various viruses including CHPV, causes brain inflammation and can lead to severe symptoms like seizures and loss of consciousness.

Q 12.What is the theme of ‘World Lung Cancer Day 2024’?

A. A breath of prevention is better than expectation on long-term survival
B. Measures to prevent lung cancer
C. Care for Your Lungs
D. Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access to Cancer Care

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access to Cancer Care

Explanation

World Lung Cancer Day, observed on August 1st, raises awareness about lung cancer, highlighting its impact and educating the public on risks, symptoms, and treatments. The day advocates for early detection, better treatment options, and more research funding. This year’s theme, “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access to Cancer Care,” emphasizes the need for equitable healthcare access for all cancer patients.

Q 13.Swapnil Kusale recently won a bronze medal in which sports event at Paris Olympics 2024?

A. Wrestling
B. Boxing
C. Shooting
D. Badminton

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Shooting

Explanation

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Swapnil Kusale won a bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 Positions event. This is India’s third Olympic medal in rifle shooting, following Abhinav Bindra’s gold in 2008 and Gagan Narang’s bronze in 2012. Liu Yukun of China won gold, and Ukraine’s Serhiy Kulish took silver. The competition was held at the National Shooting Center in Châteauroux, Paris.

Q 14.Anshuman Gaekwad, who recently passed away, was associated with which sports?

A. Cricket
B. Football
C. Hockey
D. Boxing

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Cricket

Explanation

Former Indian cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad passed away at 71 after a long battle with cancer. He played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India and had a 22-year first-class career. After retiring, he served as the Indian team’s coach. Gaekwad was part of memorable moments in cricket, including the 1998 Sharjah tournament and Anil Kumble’s historic 10-wicket haul in 1999.

Q 15.Recently, archaeologists have unearthed a terracotta pipeline at which Sangam Era site in Tamil Nadu?

A. Keeladi
B. Musiri
C. Kodumanal
D. Tondi

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Keeladi

Explanation

Archaeologists have discovered a terracotta pipeline during the 10th phase of excavation at Keeladi, a Sangam Era site in Tamil Nadu. This find highlights advanced water management practices from over 2,600 years ago. Keeladi, located near Madurai, has revealed over 20,000 artifacts, suggesting the Sangam Era began around 600 BCE, earlier than previously thought. Additional discoveries include rice husks from 3,200 years ago and evidence of early iron technology.

Q 16 .Which country hosts the international air exercise ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’?

A. UK
B. France
C. Germany
D. India

Show Answer

Answer:-D. India

Explanation

India hosts ‘Tarang Shakti,’ largest international air exercise, in two phases: August in Tamil Nadu and September in Rajasthan. The event aims to strengthen strategic relations, inviting 51 countries with 30 participating. Phase one in Tamil Nadu features France, Germany, Spain, and the UK. Phase two in Rajasthan includes Australia, Bangladesh, Greece, Singapore, UAE, and the USA. This exercise enhances collaboration and operational skills.

Q 17 .Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?

A. Gujarat
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Karnataka
D. Kerala

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Karnataka

Explanation

Heavy rainfall in the Cauvery basin has increased water release from the Krishna Raj Sagar (KRS) dam. Built across the River Cauvery at Kannambadi by the Wodeyar dynasty, it was named Krishnaraja Sagara in 1917 after King Krishnaraja Odeya IV. The dam supplies water to Shivasamudra’s hydro-electric power station, Mysore City’s drinking water, and irrigation purposes.

Q 18 .“Jhumur”, recently seen in the news, is a traditional dance performed in which state?

A. Nagaland
B. Assam
C. Sikkim
D. Manipur

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Assam

Explanation

The Assam government is planning a grand Jhumur dance performance with 8,000 tea tribe artists. Jhumur is a traditional dance of Assam’s tea tribes, performed during autumn. It features young girls dancing in fields or under trees, with male members playing instruments like the Madal drum, flute, and Taals. The dance depicts daily life, joys, sorrows, and aspirations, and serves as recreation, ritual worship, courting, and prayer for rain.

Q 19.What is Parkinson’s disease, recently seen in the news?

A. A cardiovascular disorder
B. A progressive neurological disorder
C. A respiratory illness
D. A type of cancer

Show Answer

Answer:-B. A progressive neurological disorder

Explanation

Researchers found that gene mutations in Parkinson’s disease patients are more common than expected, suggesting broader genetic testing. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement and body balance, usually starting around age 60. Men are more likely to be affected. It is caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, leading to a lack of dopamine, which results in slowed movements and tremors.

Q 20.Recently, which ministry has introduced guidelines for bagless days for students in classes 6 to 8?

A. Ministry of Home Affairs
B. Ministry of Women and Child Development
C. Ministry of Power
D. Ministry of Education

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Ministry of Education

Explanation

The Union Ministry of Education announced guidelines for bagless days for students in Classes 6 to 8, as recommended by the National Education Policy 2020. This involves a 10-day period where students intern with local vocational experts like carpenters and artists. The objectives are to enhance observation-based learning, understand community interdependence, and promote dignity of labor through activities like market visits, charity work, and report writing.

Q 21. Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, recently seen in the news, is developed by which organization?

A. JAXA
B. ISRO
C. BHEL
D. DRDO

Show Answer

Answer:-D. DRDO

Explanation

The Indian Air Force faces delays in receiving Tejas light combat aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, affecting its readiness and capabilities. Tejas, a 4.5-generation single-seat supersonic multirole fighter, was developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency and HAL. Intended to replace older MiG-21 and Su-7 jets, it joined the IAF in 2016. It has three models and is known for being the smallest and lightest in its class, with versatile combat roles.

Q 22.What are “kindlins”, recently seen in the news?

A. Critical minerals
B. Types of bacteria
C. Newly discovered species of fish
D. Adapter proteins that exists inside the cells

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Adapter proteins that exists inside the cells

Explanation

A recent study found that kidlins, adapter proteins in cell membranes, could offer a new cancer treatment pathway. The Kindlin family, with three distinct members, transfers mechanical cues to biochemical signals, interacting with structural proteins and receptors. Mutations in these proteins, caused by carcinogens like nicotine and UV rays, can disrupt cell signaling and mechanical homeostasis, affecting the body’s balance and function.

Q 23 .Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, recently seen in the news, is located in which state?

A. Maharashtra
B. Gujarat
C. Odisha
D. Assam

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Assam

Explanation

The Union Environment Ministry’s approval for oil and gas drilling in Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary may endanger the Hoolock gibbon further. This evergreen forest sanctuary, located in Assam’s Jorhat district, was established in 1997. It’s the only sanctuary in India named after a gibbon, containing the densest gibbon populations in Assam. The Bhogdoi River forms a waterlogged region with semi-hydrophytic plants along its border.

Q 24 .Landslide Atlas of India, recently seen in the news, is prepared by which organization?

A. DRDO
B. ISRO
C. NDRF
D. Ministry of Home Affairs

Show Answer

Answer:-B. ISRO

Explanation

Wayanad, Kerala, struck by a deadly landslide killing nearly 200 people, ranked 13th in ISRO’s 2023 Landslide Atlas of India. Prepared by National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) of ISRO, the atlas details landslide occurrences and damage in 147 districts across 17 states and two Union Territories. It includes 80,000 landslides mapped from 1998 to 2022, categorized by season, event, and route. The data, using high-resolution satellite imagery, ranked districts based on socio-economic exposure to landslides.

Q 25 .Recently, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched ‘Suvidha Software Version 1.0’ in which city?

A. Visakhapatnam
B. Jaisalmer
C. Kochi
D. Mumbai

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Visakhapatnam

Explanation

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) launched ‘Suvidha Software Version 1.0’ at its first ‘Annual Operational Sea Training Conference’ in Visakhapatnam. This software aims to improve training protocols across ICG platforms. Deputy Director General Anupam Rai emphasized excellence and adaptability. Senior officers discussed best practices and strategies for maritime security, highlighting ICG’s dedication to innovation and operational training excellence.

Q 26 .What is the primary objective of ‘PARAKH’ initiative, recently seen in news?

A. Developing new textbooks
B. Setting up new schools
C. Conducting teacher training workshops
D. Standardizing school board assessments nationwide

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Standardizing school board assessments nationwide

Explanation

PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development), a unit within NCERT established in 2023, has recommended including student performance from Classes 9, 10, and 11 in the final Class 12 marks. Its goal is to standardize school board assessments across India, focusing on competency-based assessment, large-scale surveys, and equivalence of school boards. The unit, staffed by assessment experts, aims to align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and create a common assessment platform.

Q 27 .What type of navigation system is ‘Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) Mk-II’, recently mentioned in news?

A. Satellite navigation system
B. Reactive navigation system
C. Marine navigation systems
D. Ring Laser Gyro (RLG) based navigation system

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Ring Laser Gyro (RLG) based navigation system

Explanation

The Indian Army has approved the procurement of the Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) Mk-II for its Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). This Ring Laser Gyro-based system offers Inertial, GPS, and Hybrid navigation modes and is designed to be spoof-proof with high encryption. It is compatible with Indian and global navigation systems and Defence Series Maps, ensuring high accuracy. The system will be procured from Bharat Electronics Limited under the Buy Indian-IDDM category.

Q 28.What is ‘Vattezhuthu’, recently seen in the news?

A. Syllabic alphabet
B. Northeastern festival
C. Martial art
D. Classical dance

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Syllabic alphabet

Explanation

Archaeologists recently found Vattezhuthu and eight Tamil inscriptions at the Thalikiswarar temple in Tirupur district, Tamil Nadu, dating back 1100 years. Vattezhuthu, a syllabic script used in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Sri Lanka, was used to write Tamil and Malayalam. It emerged around the 4th century AD from the Tamil-Brahmi script and evolved into the modern Malayalam script by the 15th century.

Q 29 .Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR), recently seen in the news, is located in which state?

A. Jharkhand
B. Bihar
C. Odisha
D. Chhattisgarh

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Chhattisgarh

Explanation

The recent All-India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2022 census reported that Achanakmar Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh saw its tiger population double from 5 to 10. Located in Bilaspur district, this reserve, established in 1975 and declared a tiger reserve in 2009, spans 553.286 sq. km. It connects Kanha and Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserves and supports diverse wildlife and tribal communities.

Q 30.Pangong Lake, recently seen in the news, is located in which state/UT?

A. Assam
B. Kerala
C. Ladakh
D. Sikkim

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Ladakh

Explanation

China has completed a 400-meter bridge near Pangong Lake, in territory it has controlled for 60 years. This bridge facilitates quick troop movements between the lake’s North and South banks. In response, India is building the 4.1-kilometer Shinkun La tunnel for all-weather connectivity between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Pangong Lake, a high-altitude saltwater lake in disputed territory, is partly in Tibet and Ladakh.

Q 31.Where is the 500 MWe sodium-cooled Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) located?

A. Kochi, Kerala
B. Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu
C. Jaipur, Rajasthan
D. Bhopal, MP

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu

Explanation

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted permission for the first criticality approach of India’s 500 MWe sodium-cooled Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. This is India’s first indigenous PFBR, commissioned by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a government company under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

Q 32.Ladli Behna Scheme, recently seen in the news, is launched by which state?

A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Madhya Pradesh
C. Gujarat
D. Rajasthan

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Madhya Pradesh

Explanation

The Madhya Pradesh government will provide gas cylinders at a subsidized rate of ₹450 per year for beneficiaries of the Ladli Behna scheme, focusing on women, especially those under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). Additionally, beneficiaries will receive ₹250 for the Rakhi festival. The central government also offers a targeted subsidy of ₹300 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder for PMUY beneficiaries.

Q 33.Recently, which two countries signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, known as the 123 Agreement?

A. India and Russia
B. Russia and Ukraine
C. Singapore and the United States (US)
D. China and Japan

Show Answer

Answer:-C. Singapore and the United States (US)

Explanation

Singapore and the United States have signed a 30-year civil nuclear cooperation agreement, called the 123 Agreement. This deal will allow Singapore to access detailed information and expertise on U.S. nuclear energy technologies, which are typically under export control. The agreement aims to enhance Singapore’s capabilities in nuclear energy and strengthen ties between the two countries in this field.

Q 34.Which state assembly recently passed amended anti-conversion bill, enhances punishment to life imprisonment?

A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Haryana
C. Gujarat
D. Kerala

Show Answer

Answer:-A. Uttar Pradesh

Explanation

The Uttar Pradesh Assembly recently passed the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which tightens regulations against fraudulent or forced conversions. The bill aims to better protect minors, disabled individuals, women, and SC/ST communities. It addresses concerns about insufficient existing laws and follows an Allahabad High Court view on rampant illegal conversions. Other states with similar laws might adopt similar amendments.

Q 35.Recently, where was the ‘Tech Leaders Forum of India (TELFI)’ launched?

A. London
B. Paris
C. Moscow
D. Dubai

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Dubai

Explanation

The Tech Leaders Forum of India (TELFI) was launched at the World Education Conference 2024 in Dubai, hosted by Federation of Economic Development Association (FEDA). TELFI aims to empower engineers with resources, knowledge, and networking opportunities through webinars, workshops, and training. Dr. E. Syed Mohamed, President of TELFI, emphasized its role in fostering innovation and professional growth in India’s engineering sector. The conference featured over 150 attendees from diverse academic fields.

Q 36 .Recently, which country has been elected Vice-Chair of the Supply Chain Council?

A. India
B. Bhutan
C. France
D. Bangladesh

Show Answer

Answer:-A. India

Explanation

India has been elected Vice-Chair of the Supply Chain Council under the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Agreement, focused on Supply Chain Resilience. The IPEF, with 14 member countries, also elected chairs and vice-chairs for the Crisis Response Network and Labor Rights Advisory Board. The Supply Chain Council’s Chair is the USA. IPEF, led by the USA, was launched by President Joe Biden on 23 May 2022 in Tokyo.

Q 37.Which country hosts ‘International Conference of Agricultural Economists’?

A. Bhutan
B. Myanmar
C. Nepal
D. India

Show Answer

Answer:-D. India

Explanation

India hosts the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists at the Pusa Institute, New Delhi, from 2 to 7 August 2024, after 66 years since it last hosted in 1958. The conference, held every three years, is organized by the International Association of Agricultural Economists in collaboration with various Indian and international agricultural and economic organizations.

Q 38.Which ministry recently launched the ‘National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal’?

A. Ministry of Urban Development
B. Ministry of Home Affairs
C. Ministry of Defence
D. Ministry of Education

Show Answer

Answer:-D. Ministry of Education

Explanation

Ministry of Education launched the National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal, disbursing ₹100 crore in stipends via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The portal supports apprenticeships in IT, manufacturing, and automobiles, enhancing youth skills and employability. It simplifies registration, application, and contract management, ensuring timely stipend payments.

Q 39 .Recently, which armed force has launched the Electronic Services e-Health Assistance and Tele-consultation (E-SeHAT) module?

A. Indian Navy
B. Indian Army
C. Indian Air Force
D. National Security Guard

Show Answer

Answer:-B. Indian Army

Explanation

Indian Army launched the E-SeHAT module, enabling tele-consultation for Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) beneficiaries from home. The pilot project started at 12 ECHS Polyclinics, including remote areas like Baramulla and Imphal. The initiative, aligned with Digital India’s vision, aims to provide safe video-based medical consultations and will expand nationwide in November 2024. Future phases include pre-consultation checks, medicine delivery, and hospital referrals.

Q 40 .Golan Heights, recently seen in the news, is located in which country?

A . Syria
B. Iraq
C. Yemen
D. Oman

Show Answer

Answer:-A . Syria

Explanation

A deadly strike on a playing field in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights has heightened concerns about a possible new conflict. The Golan Heights is a rocky plateau in southwestern Syria, about 60 km from Damascus. It covers 1,000 sq km and is surrounded by the Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee, Mount Hermon, the Wadi Al-Ruqqad River, and the Yarmuk River. It is considered occupied territory under international law.