About the project
Gofra beach is located on the eastern side of the Kinneret, near Ein Gev and at the foot of the Syrian outpost Nokeib. Many border incidents were launched in the past from said outpost. It controlled the eastern side of the Kinneret and was used by the Syrians in the 1950s and 1960s to fire therefrom at Israeli fishermen and farmers who were cultivating their fields.
At the foot of the outpost, the Syrians placed a complex system of minefields. For decades, these minefields posed a significant risk to tourists and farmers in the area and prevented tourists from enjoying this coastal strip.
In the summer of 2018, the site was cleared, and with the completion of the clearance the Kinneret beaches were free and clear of landmines. Currently many tourists visit the beaches, and trips can be taken around the entire Kinneret without interruption.
While clearing the landmines, an effort was made, in cooperation with the IDF, to locate the remains of IDF soldier Ya'akov Dvir, who participated in the battle in Nukeib when forces from the Golani Brigade and HaShayetet (the Flotilla) raided the Syrian outpost. Dvir has been missing in action since the raid on Nukeib and his burial place is unknown to this day.
In addition, as part of the project, a minefield which was located near the Kursi National Park and the road going up to the south of the Golan Heights was cleared.
Current use of the area
The areas which were cleared are used for tourism (the Kinneret circular trail was built and the beach was developed) and for general use.
See more about the project
https://www.israelhayom.co.il/article/562209
https://www.mivzaklive.co.il/archives/193992
https://www.makorrishon.co.il/nrg/online/1/ART2/905/791.html