Core Facts / Infobox

Present this as a clean two-column table containing accurate and verified national facts. Include only fields with real data.

Geography & Environment

• Israel is located on the eastern Mediterranean, bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and the Palestinian territories.
• Features include coastal plains, mountains, the Negev Desert, and the Jordan Rift Valley.
• The Dead Sea, shared with Jordan, is the lowest point on Earth.
• Major water bodies: Jordan River, Sea of Galilee (Lake Kinneret), Dead Sea.
• Climate ranges from Mediterranean to desert.
• Best time to visit: March–June and September–November.
• National parks: Masada, Ein Gedi, Timna Park, Caesarea National Park.
• Wildlife includes gazelles, ibex, foxes, migratory birds, and desert reptiles.
• Environmental challenges: water scarcity, desertification, coastal pollution.
• Unique features: Dead Sea, Red Sea coral reefs, Ramon Crater, ancient archaeological sites.

Demographics

• Total population: ~9.8 million.
• Median age: ~30 years.
• Urban vs rural: ~92% urban.
• Ethnic groups: Jewish (majority), Arab Muslims, Arab Christians, Druze.
• Religions: Judaism (majority), Islam, Christianity, Druze faith.
• Literacy rate: ~98%.
• Major cities: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Rishon LeZion, Beersheba.

History

• Israel’s history spans thousands of years, central to Judaism, Christianity, and significant in Islam.
• Ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah existed in the region.
• Region saw Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Ottoman, and British control.
• Modern Israel was established on 14 May 1948.
• Historical conflicts include the Arab–Israeli wars and ongoing regional tensions.
• Israel has developed into a technologically advanced, diversified society.

Government & Politics

• Government type: Parliamentary democracy.
• Executive: President (ceremonial) and Prime Minister (head of government).
• Legislature: unicameral Knesset.
• Judiciary: independent courts including the Supreme Court.
• Administrative divisions: 6 main districts.
• Political topics: security, regional diplomacy, economic innovation.

Economy

• Israel has one of the most technologically advanced economies in the world.
• Major industries: high-tech, cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, diamonds, agriculture.
• Main exports: technology products, software, chemicals, medical equipment.
• Main imports: machinery, vehicles, electronics, fuel, raw materials.
• Strengths: innovation, research, advanced technology sector.
• Weaknesses: regional instability, high cost of living.
• GDP sectors: Services (~68%), Industry (~30%), Agriculture (~2%).
• Israel is known as the “Startup Nation.”

Culture & Society

• Israel’s culture blends Jewish traditions, Middle Eastern heritage, and global influences.
• Values emphasize community, innovation, education, and cultural identity.
• Major festivals: Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Hanukkah, Eid, Christmas.
• Traditional dress: varies by religious and ethnic community.
• Arts: Hebrew literature, film, classical and modern music, dance, theater.
• Languages: Hebrew, Arabic, Russian widely spoken, English common.

Food & Cuisine

• National dish: Falafel.
• Iconic foods: Hummus, Shakshuka, Sabich, Shawarma, Challah.
• Street foods: falafel wraps, bourekas, pita sandwiches.
• Desserts: halva, rugelach, kanafeh.
• Beverages: mint tea, pomegranate juice, Israeli wines.
• Cuisine reflects Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Jewish diasporic influences.

Education & Institutions

• Israel has a highly developed education system with global research recognition.
• Medium of instruction: Hebrew; Arabic and English widely used in education.
• Literacy rate: ~98%.
• Top universities: Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology.
• Strong fields: science, engineering, medicine, computer science, agriculture.

Tourism

• Top destinations: Jerusalem Old City, Tel Aviv beaches, Dead Sea, Nazareth, Eilat, Haifa.
• UNESCO sites: Masada, Old City of Jerusalem, Bahá’í Gardens, Megiddo, Beth She’arim.
• Natural attractions: Ramon Crater, Red Sea coral reefs, Dead Sea salt beaches.
• Historical landmarks: Western Wall, Dome of the Rock (surroundings), Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
• Adventure tourism: desert trekking, snorkeling, hiking.
• Visa: varies by nationality; many countries visa-exempt.
• Transportation: trains, buses, light rail, highways.

Practical Information

• Safety: generally safe; security measures are visible.
• Healthcare: excellent standard.
• Emergency numbers: Police 100, Ambulance 101, Fire 102.
• Plug type: H (unique); Voltage: 230V.
• Internet: fast and widely available.
• Best time to visit: spring and autumn.
• Budget: mid to high; Tel Aviv is relatively expensive.

Sports, Entertainment & Notable People

• National sport: Football.
• Popular sports: basketball, judo, tennis, swimming.
• Notable athletes: Arik Zeevi (judo), Dudi Sela (tennis).
• Famous cultural figures: Amos Oz (writer), Idan Raichel (musician), Gal Gadot (actress).
• Nobel laureates: several in chemistry and economics.

Neighboring Countries of Israel

Israel shares land borders with the following neighboring territories and countries:

• 266 km with Egypt
• 51 km with Gaza Strip (State of Palestine)
• 238 km with Jordan
• 79 km with Lebanon
• 76 km with Syria
• 307 km with West Bank (State of Palestine)

Famous For

• Jerusalem’s religious significance.
• Dead Sea (lowest point on Earth).
• High-tech innovation (“Startup Nation”).
• Falafel, hummus, Mediterranean cuisine.
• Beautiful beaches of Tel Aviv.
• Historical and biblical heritage.
• Vibrant arts and cultural diversity.

Sources

• World Bank
• United Nations (UN Data)
• IMF
• CIA World Factbook
• Israel Central Bureau of Statistics
• Official Government Publications