Capital
Jerusalem
Population
9.5 Million (#96)
Currency
Israeli New Shekel (ILS)
Language
Hebrew, Arabic
Area
20,770 km²
National Dish
Hummus
National Flower
Cyclamen
Density
400/km²
Internet TLD
.il
Israel's history is rooted in ancient biblical periods, with the Kingdoms of Israel and Judah established in the Iron Age. The region was subsequently ruled by Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Crusader, and Ottoman empires before British administration after WWI. Following decades of Zionist migration and the Holocaust, the modern State of Israel was declared on May 14, 1948, under David Ben-Gurion, sparking conflicts with Arab nations.
Israel has a population of approximately 9.8 million, divided primarily into two demographic groups: Jewish citizens (about 73% of the population) and Arab citizens (about 21%). Hebrew is the official national language, while Arabic holds a special status. The population is highly urbanized (over 93%), concentrated along the Mediterranean coastal plain and the Jerusalem corridor.
Israel is a small country in the Middle East along the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its size, it has diverse geography: Mediterranean coast, central highlands, the Jordan Rift Valley, and the Negev Desert in the south. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth at 430 meters below sea level. The Sea of Galilee is a major freshwater lake.
Israeli culture blends ancient Jewish traditions with modern innovation. Jerusalem is sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Tel Aviv represents the modern, secular side with vibrant nightlife and tech culture. Israeli cuisine includes falafel, hummus, shakshuka, and Middle Eastern dishes. The country has a thriving arts, music, and literature scene.
Israel has a highly developed, technology-driven economy often called the 'Startup Nation.' Key sectors include cybersecurity, fintech, biotech, defense technology, and agriculture (drip irrigation innovation). Diamond cutting and polishing is significant. Tourism to religious and historical sites is important.
Explore Jerusalem's Old City with sacred sites for three religions, float in the Dead Sea, experience Tel Aviv's beaches and nightlife, hike in the Negev Desert, visit Masada fortress, discover the ancient port of Caesarea, and explore the Sea of Galilee region. The Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa are stunning.
Israel has more startups per capita than any other country.
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth.
Israel is the only country to have revived a dead language (Hebrew).
Israeli scientists have won 12 Nobel Prizes.
Tel Aviv has the highest density of tech startups in the world.
Israel has the highest number of museums per capita.
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