Israel is a country in the Middle East predominantly made up of Jewish individuals. Israel is home to many holy sites and has deep religious roots to ancient times.
Israel, which is bordered by Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria is about the size of New Jersey. Benjamin Netanyahu of the right-wing Likud party, is the longest-serving prime minister of Israel.
Netanyahu was previously prime minister from 1996 to 1999 and later from 2009 to 2021. He most recently returned to his role in 2022.
The State of Israel was established in 1948 and was officially admitted to the United Nations (UN) in 1949.
Israel has a long-standing conflict with Palestine, where heavy violence has occurred. The two have endured several battles through the years largely over control of territory.
In October 2023, Hamas terrorists launched a deadly attack on Israel. Israel then formally declared war on Hamas.
In June 2025, Israel launched strikes aimed at Iran's nuclear facilities and top military leaders.
