Country Profile: Israel
Israel, established in 1948, is a pivotal country in the Middle East, known for its advanced economy and military capabilities. It is located along the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Egypt and Lebanon, and covers an area of approximately 21,937 square kilometers. With a population of around 9.4 million, Israel is a parliamentary democracy that balances a diverse population, primarily Jewish and Arab, within its governance and society. The country's economy is driven by a robust high-tech sector and a significant defense industry, although it faces challenges such as income inequality and housing costs.
Geography
Israel is situated in the Middle East, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Egypt, and Lebanon. The country's topography includes the Negev Desert, low coastal plains, and central mountains, with the highest point being Mitspe Shlagim at 2,224 meters. The climate is predominantly temperate, with hot and dry conditions in its southern and eastern regions. Israel also has limited freshwater resources, with the Dead Sea being the lowest point in the country at 431 meters below sea level.
- Total area: 21,937 sq km
- Land boundaries: 1,068 km
- Coastline length: 273 km
- Major lakes: Dead Sea (1,020 sq km, hypersaline)
- Agricultural land: 24.8% (2023 est.)
- Irrigated land: 1,927 sq km (2022)
- Natural resources include: timber, natural gas, copper ore.
People and Society
Israel has a population of approximately 9.4 million people, primarily composed of 73.5% Jewish individuals and 21.1% Arabs. The country has a high urbanization rate, with 92.9% of the population living in urban areas, especially in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The median age in Israel is 30.2 years, with a population growth rate of 1.59% anticipated by 2025. The official languages are Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of its citizens.
- Population estimate (2024): 9,402,617
- Urban population percentage: 92.9%
- Life expectancy: 83.1 years
- Total fertility rate: 2.89 children/woman (2025 est.)
- Birth rate: 18.89 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
- Infant mortality rate: 2.6 deaths/1,000 live births (2025 est.)
- Adult obesity rate: 26.1% (2016)
Economy
Israel has a high-income economy characterized by technological and industrial growth, though recent military conflicts have impacted fiscal stability. In 2024, the GDP is estimated at $472.177 billion (PPP), with a projected growth rate of 0.9%. The economy is bolstered by a significant high-tech sector and industries such as medical electronics and telecommunications, but challenges remain in income inequality and high living costs.
- Real GDP (2024 est.): $472.177 billion
- GDP per capita (2024 est.): $47,300
- Unemployment rate (2024 est.): 3.2%
- Percentage of GDP from services: 72.5% (2024 est.)
- Agricultural sector contribution to GDP: 1.3% (2024 est.)
- Current account balance (2024 est.): $16.713 billion
- Exports (2024 est.): $153.248 billion
Government
Israel is a parliamentary democracy with Jerusalem as its capital. The government consists of an executive branch led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a unicameral legislature called the Knesset, and an independent judiciary. The political landscape is marked by a variety of parties, reflecting the country’s complex societal composition. Citizenship laws allow for dual citizenship under specific conditions, particularly regarding Jewish immigration.
- Government type: Parliamentary democracy
- Capital: Jerusalem
- Legislative structure: Unicameral (Knesset with 120 seats)
- Voting age: 18 years
- Current Prime Minister: Benjamin Netanyahu (since December 2022)
- Next scheduled election: June 2028
Military and Security
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) serve as the country's military and security apparatus, consisting of ground, naval, and air forces. Military spending is expected to represent 8% of GDP in 2024. The IDF maintains a reserve force of over 400,000, ensuring rapid mobilization during conflicts. Israel's military partnerships, particularly with the United States, enhance its defense capabilities while addressing regional security threats.
- Active military personnel: 170,000 (2025)
- Military expenditures (2024 est.): 8% of GDP
- Reserve personnel: over 400,000
- Conscription age: 18 years and older
- Key threats: Iran, Hamas, and other terrorist organizations
Energy
Israel's energy sector relies primarily on fossil fuels, which make up 89.5% of its installed generating capacity. The country has made significant strides in natural gas production, with an estimated 24.186 billion cubic meters produced in 2023. Electricity access is universal, and the country is investing in renewable energy sources to improve sustainability.
- Total installed electricity capacity: 22.612 million kW (2023)
- Electricity consumption: 63.964 billion kWh (2023)
- Natural gas production: 24.186 billion cubic meters (2023)
- Renewable sources: 10.5% of total capacity (solar and wind combined)
Environment
Israel faces several environmental challenges including limited arable land, air pollution, and water scarcity. The country actively participates in international environmental agreements aimed at addressing climate change and conservation issues. Urban areas are densely populated, leading to increased demands on natural resources and infrastructure.
- Total carbon dioxide emissions: 64.401 million metric tonnes (2023)
- Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 30.4% (2022)
- Water resources withdrawal: 1.78 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
- Estimated arable land: 12.5% (2023)
Transportation
Israel has a developed transportation network that includes air, rail, and road systems. With 40 airports and 1,497 km of railways, the country facilitates both domestic and international travel efficiently. The civil aviation sector plays a significant role in connecting Israel to the global market.
- Total number of airports: 40 (2025)
- Railways: 1,497 km (2021)
- Merchant marine: 41 ships (2023)
- Main ports: Haifa, Ashdod, Eilat
Communications
Israel enjoys a highly developed communications infrastructure, with an Internet user rate of 87% and a significant number of mobile subscribers. The country has a competitive telecommunications market with multiple service providers and is home to various broadcasting services.
- Total fixed-line subscriptions: 2.905 million (2023)
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 13.8 million (2022)
- Broadband subscriptions: 2.76 million (2023)
- Internet penetration: 87% of the population (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,402,617 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 21,937 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $472.177 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.2% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 18.89 births/1,000 population | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 83.1 years | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 112.437 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
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