The Nation State of Israel was declared in 1948, after Britain withdrew from its mandate of Palestine. Israel joined the UN in 1949 and saw rapid population growth, primarily due to migration from Europe and the Middle East.
The economy of Israel has undergone a dramatic transformation in the last 25 years, led by cutting-edge high-tech sectors.
Geography
Area
total : 21,937 sq km land: 21,497 sq km water: 440 sq km
Climate
temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Jewish 73.5% (of which Israel-born 79.7%, Europe/America/Oceania-born 14.3%, Africa-born 3.9%, Asia-born 2.1%), Arab 21.1%, other 5.4% (2022 est.)
Languages
Hebrew (official), Arabic (special status under Israeli law), English (most commonly used foreign language)
Religions
Jewish 73.5%, Muslim 18.1%, Christian 1.9%, Druze 1.6%, other 4.9% (2022 est.)
Population growth rate
1.58% (2024 est.)
Government
Government type
parliamentary democracy
Capital
name: Jerusalem
Executive branch
chief of state: President Isaac HERZOG (since 7 July 2021) head of government: Prime Minister Benyamin NETANYAHU (since 29 December 2022)
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Yechiel (Michael) LEITER (since 4 February 2025)
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Mike HUCKABEE (21 April 2025)
Economy
Economic overview
high-income, technology- and industrial-based economy; economic contraction and fiscal deficits resulting from war in Gaza; labor force stabilizing following military reservist mobilization; high-tech industry remains resilient while construction and tourism among hardest-hit sectors
