Israel

Israel, officially known as the State of Israel, is a Middle Eastern country located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest, with the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and Gaza Strip also adjacent. Established in 1948 as a homeland for the Jewish people, Israel is the world’s only Jewish-majority state, while also home to significant Arab, Druze, and other minority communities.

Despite its relatively small land area of approximately 22,000 square kilometers, Israel has a diverse geography that includes coastal plains, mountain ranges, the Negev Desert in the south, and the Jordan Rift Valley in the east. Its climate ranges from Mediterranean in the north and along the coast to arid and semi-arid in the southern regions, shaping agriculture, water management, and settlement patterns.

Israel’s society is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Hebrew and Arabic are official languages, reflecting the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity, while English is widely used in business, academia, and tourism. The population is highly urbanized, with major cities such as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva serving as centers of government, commerce, culture, and technology.

The country is renowned for its historical, religious, and cultural significance. Jerusalem, one of the world’s oldest cities, holds profound importance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. Israel’s rich archaeological heritage, sacred sites, and vibrant traditions contribute to a national identity deeply connected to history and faith.

Israel is also a global leader in science, technology, and innovation. Its advanced high-tech sector, known as the “Startup Nation,” encompasses fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy. This focus on innovation has positioned Israel as a major player in global research, technology exports, and scientific development.

Economically, Israel has a highly developed and diversified economy, combining strong technology and industrial sectors with agriculture, tourism, and natural resources. Its economic policies encourage entrepreneurship, foreign investment, and trade, despite regional geopolitical challenges. Israel maintains robust trade relations with countries worldwide and is a member of several international economic organizations.

Politically, Israel is a parliamentary democracy, with a President as head of state and a Prime Minister as head of government. The Knesset, Israel’s unicameral legislature, enacts laws and oversees government functions. The nation’s political landscape is shaped by a range of parties, coalitions, and ongoing debates regarding security, social policy, and relations with neighboring states and the Palestinian territories.

Israel’s culture is vibrant and diverse, encompassing music, literature, visual arts, film, and cuisine influenced by Jewish diaspora communities and local traditions. National holidays such as Yom Ha’atzmaut (Independence Day) and religious festivals reflect both historical and contemporary aspects of Israeli life.

In terms of infrastructure, Israel boasts modern transportation, telecommunications, and energy systems. Major highways, rail networks, airports, and seaports facilitate domestic and international connectivity, while investment in water management, renewable energy, and high-speed internet supports sustainable development and innovation.

Overall, Israel is a country of contrasts and resilience, blending ancient history with cutting-edge technology, religious tradition with modern governance, and regional challenges with global influence. Its strategic location, cultural richness, and innovative capacity make it a unique nation on the international stage.

For more information, visit the Official Israeli Government Portal or CIA World Factbook – Israel.

The history of Israel spans thousands of years, reflecting a land of profound religious, cultural, and political significance. Ancient Israelite civilization emerged in the Levant region, with roots tracing back to the biblical patriarchs. The Kingdoms of Israel and Judah flourished in the first millennium BCE, establishing religious, social, and political structures that shaped Jewish identity and culture.

Throughout antiquity, the region experienced conquest and rule by successive empires, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. The destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem by the Babylonians and the later destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans were pivotal events in Jewish history, leading to large-scale diaspora communities across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.

During the medieval period, the land now known as Israel came under Byzantine, Islamic, Crusader, and Ottoman control. Despite foreign domination, Jewish communities persisted alongside Arab and other populations, maintaining religious practices, scholarship, and trade networks. The city of Jerusalem remained a central religious hub for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

The 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the rise of Zionism, a political movement advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the historical Land of Israel. Waves of Jewish immigration, known as Aliyah, began to reshape the demographics, economy, and society of the region. Under Ottoman rule, and later British mandate following World War I, Jewish communities expanded settlements, developed infrastructure, and established cultural and educational institutions.

In 1947, the United Nations proposed the partition of Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem as an international city. The plan was accepted by Jewish leaders but rejected by Arab leaders, leading to regional conflict. On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion declared the independence of the State of Israel, establishing a modern Jewish nation-state.

Immediately following independence, Israel faced the Arab-Israeli War of 1948, also known as the War of Independence, defending its sovereignty against neighboring Arab countries. Subsequent decades were marked by additional conflicts, including the Suez Crisis, Six-Day War, Yom Kippur War, and Lebanon conflicts, shaping Israel’s borders, security policies, and international relations.

Internally, Israel absorbed large waves of immigrants from Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the former Soviet Union, creating a diverse society with a mosaic of cultural traditions. Economic development, technological advancement, and social institutions evolved rapidly, enabling Israel to establish itself as a regional and global actor.

Peace efforts have been intermittent, including treaties with Egypt (1979) and Jordan (1994), as well as ongoing negotiations with the Palestinians and other regional actors. The history of Israel is deeply intertwined with issues of identity, religion, geopolitics, and security, reflecting both its ancient roots and modern nationhood.

Today, Israel’s history continues to influence its society, culture, and international standing, making it a country where ancient heritage and contemporary innovation coexist dynamically.

For more historical context, visit Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs – History of Israel or Encyclopaedia Britannica – Israel.

Israel has a population of approximately 9.7 million people as of 2026, making it one of the more densely populated countries in the Middle East. The population is highly diverse, reflecting waves of immigration from Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and the former Soviet Union. This diversity has contributed to a multicultural society encompassing multiple languages, religions, and cultural traditions.

Ethnically, the majority of the population is Jewish, accounting for roughly 74% of residents. Among Jewish Israelis, there are distinct groups such as Ashkenazi (European origin), Sephardi (Iberian origin), Mizrahi (Middle Eastern and North African origin), Ethiopian Jews, and more recent immigrants from the former Soviet Union and other countries. Arab Israelis constitute about 21% of the population, including Muslims, Christians, and Druze, living primarily in towns and villages in the Galilee, Negev, and urban centers. Other minorities include non-Arab Christians, Circassians, and a small number of international expatriates.

The official languages of Israel are Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting the country's Jewish and Arab communities. Hebrew serves as the primary language of government, education, and media, while Arabic is widely used among Arab Israelis and is recognized in public signage, legal documents, and official communication. English is also commonly spoken and serves as a language of business, higher education, and tourism.

Israel’s population is predominantly urban, with over 92% living in cities and towns. Major metropolitan areas include Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Be’er Sheva, and Netanya. Urban centers are hubs for economic activity, cultural life, and technological development, while smaller towns and rural areas contribute to agriculture and local traditions.

The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 30 years, reflecting higher fertility rates among Jewish and Arab populations compared to many Western countries. Life expectancy is high, averaging around 83 years, thanks to a developed healthcare system and widespread access to medical services.

Religious composition plays a central role in Israeli society. Judaism is the predominant religion, with multiple denominations including Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform. Islam is the primary religion among Arab Israelis, along with smaller Christian communities and the Druze faith. Religious observance varies widely, from secular to strictly observant communities, influencing social norms, education, and public policy.

Immigration and diaspora connections remain significant. Israel has absorbed over three million Jewish immigrants since its founding in 1948, a process known as Aliyah, contributing to demographic shifts and cultural diversity. Migration continues today, with Jews from around the world relocating for religious, cultural, or economic reasons, alongside non-Jewish residents drawn by employment, study, or family ties.

Population distribution and density vary widely. Coastal plains, central highlands, and urban centers are densely populated, while the Negev Desert and northern periphery are sparsely inhabited. Government policies encourage settlement in peripheral areas, promoting development and balancing demographic growth.

Israel also maintains detailed demographic records through the Central Bureau of Statistics, providing data on population growth, fertility, migration, household composition, and employment. These statistics inform public policy, urban planning, and social services, ensuring sustainable development for the country’s diverse population.

For more detailed demographic information, visit Israel Central Bureau of Statistics – Population or CIA World Factbook – Israel.

Israel has a highly developed and diverse economy, characterized by a combination of advanced technology, robust industrial sectors, agriculture, and services. Despite its small size and geopolitical challenges, Israel has become one of the world’s leading innovators, earning the nickname “Startup Nation” due to its dynamic high-tech sector and entrepreneurial culture.

The technology and innovation sector is a major driver of economic growth. Israel is home to thousands of startups specializing in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, medical devices, renewable energy, fintech, and software development. The country invests heavily in research and development, with R&D expenditure among the highest per capita in the world, supported by strong academic institutions such as the Technion, Hebrew University, and Weizmann Institute of Science.

Israel’s industrial sector encompasses manufacturing, defense, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. High-tech exports, defense technology, and industrial products contribute significantly to GDP and trade. Defense industries are particularly advanced, producing military hardware, cybersecurity solutions, and intelligence systems that are exported globally.

Agriculture in Israel is highly innovative and efficient, despite limited arable land. The country pioneered irrigation technologies, such as drip irrigation, and desert farming techniques that enable cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for both domestic consumption and export. Agricultural exports include citrus fruits, avocados, dates, and high-value crops.

Services constitute a major portion of the economy, including finance, tourism, education, and professional services. Israel has a well-developed banking system, venture capital industry, and international trade relationships, particularly with the United States, European Union, and Asia. Tourism is also significant, with millions visiting historical, religious, and natural sites annually, contributing to employment and GDP.

Israel has a robust labor market with a highly educated workforce. Human capital is supported by compulsory education, world-class universities, and vocational training programs. Entrepreneurship is encouraged through incubators, accelerators, and government initiatives, fostering innovation and economic growth.

The country’s energy and infrastructure sectors are undergoing transformation, with exploration of natural gas reserves in the Mediterranean enhancing energy security and export potential. Renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, is also expanding, in line with environmental and economic objectives.

Trade and foreign investment are key components of Israel’s economy. The nation maintains free trade agreements and strong economic ties with numerous countries. Exports include technology products, pharmaceuticals, diamonds, and agricultural goods, while imports focus on raw materials, machinery, and consumer products.

Israel’s economy faces unique challenges, including regional security concerns, income inequality, and the high cost of living, particularly housing. Nevertheless, strategic investment in education, innovation, and infrastructure has maintained strong economic performance, resilience, and competitiveness in global markets.

Government economic policy emphasizes fiscal stability, innovation, and integration into the global economy. Institutions such as the Bank of Israel manage monetary policy, while government programs support industrial development, research initiatives, and export promotion.

For more detailed economic information, visit Official Israeli Government – Economy or CIA World Factbook – Israel.

Israel is a parliamentary democracy with a political system combining representative institutions, a multi-party structure, and a strong emphasis on the rule of law. Its government framework is defined by the Basic Laws, which function as an uncodified constitution, outlining the organization of the state, human rights, and separation of powers.

The legislative branch is the Knesset, a unicameral body consisting of 120 members elected through nationwide proportional representation. The Knesset is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, overseeing the government, and ratifying international treaties. Elections are held every four years, although political instability has occasionally led to early elections.

The executive branch is headed by the Prime Minister, who is the head of government and wields significant authority in policy-making, administration, and foreign affairs. The President serves as a largely ceremonial head of state, representing Israel in official capacities and performing symbolic duties such as appointing the Prime Minister based on Knesset election results.

Israel has a multi-party system, with political parties representing a wide spectrum of ideologies, including secular and religious, left-wing, right-wing, centrist, Arab minority, and nationalist perspectives. Coalition governments are common due to proportional representation, requiring negotiation and compromise among parties to form a majority. Prominent parties include Likud, Yesh Atid, Blue and White, Shas, and United Torah Judaism, among others.

Judicial independence is a cornerstone of Israel’s democracy. The Supreme Court serves as the highest judicial authority, with jurisdiction over constitutional, civil, and criminal matters. Courts ensure legal compliance, protect civil liberties, and adjudicate disputes between the government and individuals.

Israel’s politics are heavily influenced by regional security concerns, the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, and foreign relations. National defense, counterterrorism, and diplomatic strategy are central to policy-making. Israel maintains a highly capable military, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which operates under civilian control and plays a significant role in national security.

Political discourse in Israel is vibrant and often polarized, reflecting debates over security, religion and state, economic policy, settlement activities, and civil rights. The Arab-Israeli minority participates in politics through parties and representation in the Knesset, although issues of equality and integration remain subjects of public debate.

Israel maintains strong diplomatic ties with the United States, the European Union, and various regional and global partners. Peace agreements with Egypt and Jordan, along with normalization agreements with several Arab countries under the Abraham Accords, have influenced political dynamics and foreign policy priorities.

Issues such as judicial reform, electoral law, economic inequality, religious freedoms, and settlement policies continue to shape domestic political debates. Civil society organizations, advocacy groups, and independent media play a role in shaping public opinion and holding political actors accountable.

For more detailed information on Israel’s political system, visit Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Political System or CIA World Factbook – Israel.

Israel’s culture is a rich tapestry shaped by centuries of Jewish history, religious traditions, immigration, and the diverse influences of surrounding Middle Eastern and Mediterranean societies. As a nation founded in 1948, Israel’s cultural identity reflects the blending of ancient heritage with modern innovation, creating a unique social and artistic landscape.

Religion plays a central role in Israeli culture. Judaism informs holidays, rituals, dietary customs, and social norms. Major Jewish holidays such as Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah are widely celebrated, while secular commemorations such as Independence Day and Memorial Day reflect national identity. Arab Israelis and other minority groups observe Islamic, Christian, and Druze traditions, contributing to cultural plurality.

Language is a cornerstone of cultural expression. Hebrew, revived as a spoken language in the 19th and 20th centuries, is used in education, literature, media, and public life. Arabic is also an official language, and English is widely used in business, academia, and tourism. This multilingual environment supports literary, journalistic, and artistic creativity across communities.

Israel has a vibrant arts scene encompassing literature, music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Renowned authors, poets, and playwrights contribute to Hebrew, Arabic, and international literary traditions. Music ranges from traditional folk melodies and liturgical chants to contemporary pop, rock, and electronic genres. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, major theaters in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and numerous cultural festivals showcase both classical and modern artistic endeavors.

Film and media are significant cultural outlets, with Israeli cinema gaining international recognition for its innovative storytelling and social commentary. Television and digital media reflect the diverse perspectives within Israeli society, addressing politics, religion, immigration, and social issues.

Architecture and design in Israel reflect historical influences, modernist experimentation, and local adaptations. Ancient sites, Ottoman-era structures, Bauhaus buildings in Tel Aviv, and contemporary urban developments illustrate the country’s dynamic cultural heritage and commitment to innovation in public and private spaces.

Culinary culture in Israel is deeply influenced by Jewish diaspora communities, Arab culinary traditions, and modern global trends. Popular dishes include hummus, falafel, shakshuka, schnitzel, and diverse baked goods. Regional ingredients and flavors, such as olives, citrus, seafood, and spices, are central to the cuisine. Food markets, street vendors, and family gatherings play an essential role in social and cultural life.

Sport and recreation are also important aspects of Israeli culture. Soccer, basketball, and judo enjoy wide participation, while hiking, swimming, and desert excursions reflect the country’s natural landscapes. National events such as the Maccabiah Games highlight both athletic talent and cultural pride.

Education, scientific achievement, and technological innovation are deeply embedded in Israeli cultural values. The emphasis on academic excellence, research, and entrepreneurship influences societal attitudes, shaping a culture that balances tradition with progress.

Despite political and social challenges, Israeli society is marked by resilience, creativity, and cultural pluralism. Festivals, museums, cultural centers, and public celebrations foster engagement and dialogue among diverse communities, contributing to a dynamic and evolving national identity.

For more information on Israel’s culture, visit Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Culture or CIA World Factbook – Israel.

Israel is recognized globally as a leader in science, technology, and innovation, earning the nickname “Startup Nation” due to its high concentration of startups and technological breakthroughs relative to its population. The country has cultivated a robust ecosystem that fosters research, development, and entrepreneurship across multiple sectors.

Research and development (R&D) are central to Israel’s technological prowess. The nation invests heavily in R&D, spending one of the highest percentages of GDP in the world on scientific research. Universities, research institutes, and private sector laboratories drive advancements in fields such as information technology, biotechnology, medicine, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. Prestigious institutions such as the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and Bar-Ilan University are at the forefront of global research efforts.

Israel’s startup ecosystem is particularly vibrant, with thousands of companies developing cutting-edge technologies in areas including AI, machine learning, big data analytics, medical devices, drones, autonomous vehicles, and agricultural tech. Incubators, accelerators, and government programs provide funding, mentorship, and global connections to help innovative ideas scale internationally. This environment has produced numerous companies listed on NASDAQ and global tech giants acquiring Israeli innovations.

In biotechnology and medicine, Israel has made significant contributions to diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Research in genetics, oncology, cardiology, and digital health has led to globally recognized technologies and therapies. Israeli companies are known for developing life-saving equipment, advanced imaging systems, and telemedicine solutions that are widely exported and adopted.

Cybersecurity is another cornerstone of Israel’s technological leadership. The nation has developed cutting-edge solutions for digital defense, encryption, and network security, supported by military expertise, academic research, and private sector innovation. Israeli cybersecurity firms are highly sought after by multinational corporations and governments worldwide.

Agricultural technology, or “agritech,” is an area where Israel has pioneered techniques to overcome environmental challenges, including desert irrigation, water conservation, vertical farming, and sustainable crop production. These innovations enable efficient use of limited natural resources and have been exported globally to improve food security in arid regions.

Space science and technology are also emerging fields. Israel has launched satellites, developed space communication technologies, and participated in international space projects. Collaborations with global space agencies and private enterprises contribute to research in satellite imaging, Earth observation, and telecommunications.

Renewable energy, particularly solar power, is a rapidly growing sector. Israel leverages abundant sunlight to develop solar energy technologies, energy storage solutions, and smart grid applications. These initiatives are aligned with global sustainability goals and enhance energy security.

The government plays a key role in fostering scientific and technological development. Agencies such as the Israel Innovation Authority, Ministry of Science and Technology, and National Council for Research and Development support research grants, technological incubation, and international collaboration.

International collaboration is a hallmark of Israel’s scientific strategy. Israeli researchers and companies frequently partner with institutions in the United States, Europe, Asia, and other regions, promoting knowledge exchange and global competitiveness. Israel’s contributions to conferences, patents, and publications reflect its high standing in global innovation rankings.

For more information on Israel’s science and technology initiatives, visit Israel Ministry of Science & Technology or Startup Nation Central.

Israel’s infrastructure and transportation networks are highly developed, reflecting the country’s focus on economic growth, national security, and connectivity. Despite its relatively small geographic size, Israel has built a comprehensive system of roads, railways, ports, airports, and utilities that facilitate domestic mobility and international trade.

The road network is extensive and modern, with highways connecting major cities, towns, and border crossings. Key routes include Highway 1 linking Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Highway 6 (the Trans-Israel Highway) running north-south, and numerous other arterial roads facilitating regional transport. Roads are well-maintained, and ongoing expansions aim to reduce congestion and support urban and suburban growth.

Rail transport has undergone significant modernization in recent decades. Israel Railways operates passenger and freight services connecting major population centers, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba. High-speed lines, electrification projects, and expanded commuter services have improved reliability and reduced travel times. Rail also plays a strategic role in freight logistics, connecting ports and industrial zones.

Air transport is served by several international and domestic airports, with Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv being the main gateway for international travelers. Other airports include Ramon Airport in Eilat, Haifa Airport, and Sde Dov Airport (currently being phased out for redevelopment). Israel’s aviation network supports tourism, business travel, and cargo transport, linking the country to global markets.

Maritime infrastructure includes major ports such as Haifa, Ashdod, and Eilat, which handle commercial shipping, container transport, and passenger ferries. The ports are equipped with modern cargo handling facilities, container terminals, and logistics hubs, enabling efficient import and export operations. Israel’s Mediterranean and Red Sea ports are vital for trade with Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Urban public transportation varies by city. Tel Aviv has an expanding light rail system, complemented by buses and shared mobility options. Jerusalem operates buses and a light rail line connecting key districts. Nationwide bus services, including Egged and Dan, provide intercity transport, while shared taxis and ridesharing services supplement public transit in urban and rural areas.

Utilities and essential services are modern and reliable. Israel has invested heavily in electricity, water supply, and telecommunications infrastructure. Water management is a national priority due to arid conditions, with innovative desalination plants, wastewater recycling, and drip irrigation systems ensuring sustainable water availability.

Telecommunications are advanced, with widespread mobile phone coverage, high-speed internet, and fiber-optic networks. Israel is a global leader in digital infrastructure, supporting technology companies, startups, and e-governance initiatives. Digital platforms enhance service delivery in healthcare, education, and commerce.

National security and emergency preparedness are integrated into infrastructure planning. Roads, bridges, tunnels, and utility systems are designed with resilience in mind, accommodating potential threats and natural disasters. Critical infrastructure, including ports, airports, and energy facilities, is closely monitored and protected.

Israel continues to invest in expanding and modernizing its infrastructure, prioritizing sustainable transport, smart city initiatives, and interconnectivity. Projects include light rail expansion, highway upgrades, port modernization, renewable energy integration, and advanced logistics networks, ensuring the country’s mobility, economic growth, and international competitiveness.

For more details on Israel’s infrastructure and transportation, visit Israel Ministry of Transport and Road Safety or CIA World Factbook – Israel.