Israel is a country in the Middle East, located at the southeastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Lebanon to the north, Syria and Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. Here's a comprehensive overview:
History
- Ancient History: The region of modern Israel has been inhabited since prehistorical times. It was the birthplace of the Hebrew people and the site of the Kingdom of Israel and later the Kingdom of Judah.
- Biblical Times: This area is central to the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths, with Jerusalem being a holy city for all three.
- Ottoman Rule: From 1517 to 1917, the area was under Ottoman Empire rule.
- British Mandate: After World War I, the League of Nations granted United Kingdom the mandate for Palestine, which included the territory that would later become Israel.
- Establishment of Israel: Following the Holocaust and increased international support for a Jewish homeland, the United Nations adopted a Partition Plan for Palestine in 1947. On May 14, 1948, Israel declared its independence after the termination of the British Mandate for Palestine. This led to the 1948 Arab-Israeli War with neighboring Arab states.
- Conflicts and Peace Efforts: Israel has been involved in several conflicts, notably the Six-Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Peace treaties have been signed, such as with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.
Geography and Climate
Israel has a diverse landscape including deserts, mountains, and coastal plains. The climate varies from temperate in the north to arid in the south.
Demographics
- Population: Approximately 9 million people.
- Official Language: Hebrew and Arabic.
- Ethnic Groups: The population primarily consists of Jews, with significant minorities of Arab citizens and other smaller groups.
Government and Politics
Israel is a parliamentary democracy with a presidential system. The President serves as head of state, while the Prime Minister, head of government, is elected by the Knesset, Israel's unicameral legislature.
Economy
Israel has a technologically advanced market economy with a focus on high-tech industries, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. It is known for its innovation, often referred to as the "Start-Up Nation".
Culture
Israeli culture is a blend of Jewish, Arab, and other influences. The country is renowned for its cultural contributions in literature, music, and cinema, with a rich tradition of Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish heritage.
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