Israel is a country located in the Middle East, along the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by 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 located to the east and west, respectively. Israel covers an area of approximately 22,000 square kilometers and has a population of about 9 million people. The country’s capital is Jerusalem, though its status as the capital is contested internationally, with many countries maintaining their embassies in Tel Aviv.
Israel was established as a modern state on May 14, 1948, following a United Nations plan to partition the British-controlled territory of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. This decision led to the 1948 Arab-Israeli War between Israel and its neighboring Arab countries. Since its establishment, Israel has experienced ongoing conflict with its neighbors and within its borders, particularly concerning the status of Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Several wars and peace processes have taken place over the years, including notable treaties with Egypt and Jordan, though tensions remain high with some neighboring nations and within the Palestinian territories.
The country's political system is a parliamentary democracy, and it has a diverse society with Jewish, Arab, Druze, and other minority communities. Hebrew is the official language, and Arabic has special status. Israel’s economy is highly developed and technology-driven, known for its significant contributions to sectors such as high-tech, agriculture, and defense industries. It also has a strong healthcare system and a high standard of living.
Israel is considered a key player in global geopolitics, particularly in relation to the Middle East. Its foreign policy is heavily influenced by its relations with the United States and its ongoing conflict with Palestine, with peace talks and negotiations occurring intermittently over the years. The country is also home to numerous significant religious and historical sites, particularly in Jerusalem, which is sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
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