Which two nations experienced military conflict over water diversion efforts in the 1960s?

The correct answer highlights a significant historical conflict that arose between Israel and Syria during the 1960s, primarily focused on water resources from the Jordan River and the Golan Heights. As both nations sought to utilize the water for irrigation and other vital needs, tensions escalated. Israel's development of water diversion projects prompted Syria to respond assertively, aiming to protect its own water interests and prevent potential Israeli access to the river. This struggle over water resources not only underscored the importance of water in regional geopolitics but also contributed to the broader hostilities that led to confrontations between the two nations, including the Six-Day War in 1967, which had lasting impacts on the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

The context surrounding this conflict showcases the critical role that water plays in international relations, particularly in arid regions where access to water is limited and essential for agricultural and human needs. Understanding this conflict reflects broader themes in international relations, such as resource competition, national security, and the interplay of domestic and foreign policy issues related to scarce resources.