How Big Is Israel? Discover Its Size and Area

Many think Israel is huge, but it’s actually quite small. It’s smaller than New Jersey, covering 20,770 square kilometers (8,019 square miles). Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank together are about 10,600 square miles, similar to Los Angeles County’s size.

Despite its small size, Israel has a wide range of landscapes. From the Mediterranean coast to the Negev Desert, it’s diverse. It stretches about 290 miles (470 km) long and 85 miles (135 km) wide. With over 150 nature reserves and 65 national parks, it covers nearly 400 square miles (almost 1,000 sq. km).

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Israel is a small country, covering just 20,770 square kilometers (8,019 square miles) of land.
  • Israel plus Gaza and the West Bank cover about 10,600 square miles of land, an area roughly 2½ times the size of Los Angeles County.
  • Israel measures approximately 290 miles (470 km) in length and 85 miles (135 km) at its widest point.
  • Israel is home to over 150 nature reserves and 65 national parks that cover nearly 400 square miles (almost 1,000 sq. km) of its territory.
  • Despite its small size, Israel boasts a diverse geography, ranging from the Mediterranean coastal plain to the Negev Desert in the south.

Israel: A Tiny Nation in the Middle East

Israel is in the heart of the Middle East. It’s small compared to its big neighbors. With an area of about 8,469 square miles, it’s like New Jersey in size.

Geographical Location and Borders

Israel is by the Mediterranean Sea. It’s bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, the West Bank, and Egypt. Its small size makes it key in global politics and biblical prophecy.

Israel’s Diminutive Size Compared to the United States

Israel has 9.3 million people, while the U.S. has 333 million. The U.S. is much bigger, with 3.8 million square miles. Israel is very crowded, with 1,098 people per square mile, compared to the U.S.’s 87.

Country Area (sq mi) Population Population Density (per sq mi)
Israel 8,469 9.3 million 1,098
United States 3.8 million 333 million 87
New Jersey 8,722 9.3 million 1,263

This shows Israel is much smaller than the U.S. It faces unique challenges because of its size and population.

The Four Physiographic Regions of Israel

Israel is a small country with a big variety of landscapes. It is divided into four main areas: the Mediterranean Coastal Plain, the Central Hills, the Jordan Rift Valley, and the Negev Desert. Each area has its own special features that make Israel’s terrain and resources unique.

Mediterranean Coastal Plain

The Mediterranean Coastal Plain runs along Israel’s west coast. It stretches about 115 miles (185 km) from north to south. In the south, it widens to about 25 miles (40 km). This area is famous for growing citrus fruits and grapes. It also has big cities like Tel Aviv.

Central Hills

The Central Hills include mountains and hills in Upper Galilee, Lower Galilee, the Samarian Hills, and the Judean Hills. The highest point, Mount Meron, reaches 3,963 feet (1,208 meters). This region is known for its rough terrain and ancient sites.

Jordan Rift Valley

The Jordan Rift Valley is a deep crack in the Earth’s surface that goes through Israel. It is home to the Jordan River. The river flows from the north through the Sea of Galilee and down to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.

Negev Desert

The Negev Desert makes up about half of Israel’s land. It is in the south and gets drier as you go further south. The Negev has different landscapes and the colorful Eilat Mountains with their sandstone layers.

These four regions make Israel’s landscape rich and varied. Each region brings its own challenges and opportunities for the country and its people.

Tensions Arising from Israel’s Compact Geography

Israel’s small size and location near its neighbors have led to long-standing conflicts. It shares borders with Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. These countries have fought against Israel ever sense it gained independence in 1948.

Israel’s tight geography makes it an easy target. Enemies are right at its doorstep. An expert compared it to living in Newark and facing rocket attacks from the Hudson River. It’s a scary thought, with little time to react.

Proximity to Neighboring Countries and Conflicts

Israel’s close location to its neighbors has sparked many battles. Between 2008 and 2023, over 15,000 people, including 10,000 women and children, were killed in Gaza. This makes it the deadliest war for Gaza.

The Jewish population in Palestine grew from 6 percent to 33 percent between 1918 and 1947. This was due to Jewish migration, mainly to escape Nazism in Europe. The Six-Day War in 1967 displaced about 300,000 Palestinians.

Today, the conflict over territories and Jerusalem continues. In early October 2023, over 1,300 Israelis were killed, 3,300 injured, and hundreds taken hostage by Hamas. The fighting in May 2021 killed more than 250 Palestinians and 13 Israelis. Nearly 2,000 people were wounded, and 72,000 Palestinians were displaced.

“Imagine you’re living in Newark and someone is firing rockets from the other side of the Hudson River. How much time would you be able to prepare and get to safety?”

How big is Israel?

Israel is a small country with a big history and culture. It covers about 20,770 square kilometers (8,019 square miles). This makes it the 150th largest country in the world.

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From north to south, Israel is 424 kilometers (263 miles) long. Its widest point is 114 kilometers (71 miles) from east to west. But, it’s only 15 kilometers (9 miles) wide at its narrowest.

Israel has a total land frontier of 1,017 kilometers (632 miles). It also has a 273-kilometer (170-mile) coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.

Despite being small, Israel’s terrain is diverse and stunning. It has snow-capped mountains in the north and vast deserts in the south. This shows Israel’s ability to thrive in different environments.

Metric Value
Total Area 20,770 km² (8,019 sq mi)
Land Area 21,497 km² (8,299 sq mi)
Water Area 440 km² (172 sq mi)
Land Boundaries 1,068 km (663 mi)
Coastline 273 km (170 mi)
Highest Point Mitspe Shlagim at 2,224 m (7,300 ft)
Lowest Point Dead Sea at -431 m (-1,414 ft)

Israel’s small size brings its own set of challenges. Yet, it also adds to the country’s unique charm and strength. Exploring Israel’s geography reveals a world full of contrasts and diversity, despite its small size.

Israel’s Land Area and Dimensions

Israel is a small but remarkable nation in the Middle East. It covers about 20,770 km² (8,019 sq mi), including 445 km² (172 sq mi) of water. The country stretches 424 km (263 mi) from north to south. It is only 114 km (71 mi) wide at its widest point.

But, Israel can be even more compact. At its narrowest, it’s just 15 km (9 mi) wide. Israel’s total land frontier is 1,017 km (632 mi long. Its coastline along the Mediterranean Sea is 273 km (170 mi long.

Israel ranks 150th in the world by total area. Its small size shows its unique geography and the challenges it faces.

Metric Value
Total Area 20,770 km² (8,019 sq mi)
Land Area 20,325 km² (7,847 sq mi)
Inland Water 445 km² (172 sq mi)
North-South Length 424 km (263 mi)
East-West Width (Widest) 114 km (71 mi)
East-West Width (Narrowest) 15 km (9 mi)
Land Frontier 1,017 km (632 mi)
Coastline 273 km (170 mi)
Ranking by Total Area 150th

Israel is much smaller than many countries, like the United States. But, despite its small size, Israel has diverse landscapes. From snow-capped peaks in the north to arid deserts in the south, it’s a remarkable nation.

Diverse Terrain and Landscapes

Israel is small but has a wide range of landscapes. From snow-capped mountains in the north to dry deserts in the south. This tiny country, covering 20,770 square kilometers (8,019 square miles), is full of amazing sights.

From Snow-Capped Mountains to Arid Deserts

In the north, Mount Meron, Israel’s highest point, reaches 1,208 meters (3,963 feet). Moving south, the central highlands are about 610 meters (2,001 feet) high. They are covered with the Judean and Samarian Hills.

The Negev Desert in the south is huge, covering over 16,000 square kilometers (6,178 square miles). It’s a big contrast to the green coastal plains and rocky mountains found elsewhere in Israel.

The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, is nestled between these areas. It’s 400 meters (1,312 feet) below sea level. This salty lake is famous for its healing properties, showing Israel’s incredible natural variety.

Geographic Feature Dimensions
Total Area 20,770 sq km (8,019 sq mi)
Land Area 20,330 sq km (7,849 sq mi)
Water Area 440 sq km (170 sq mi)
Coastline 273 km (170 mi)
Highest Point (Mount Meron) 1,208 m (3,963 ft)
Lowest Point (Dead Sea) -408 m (-1,368 ft)
Negev Desert Over 16,000 sq km (6,178 sq mi)

Israel’s varied landscapes, from snowy peaks to dry deserts, show its incredible natural beauty. This small country is packed with wonders.

Population Density and Urban Centers

Israel, a small nation in the Middle East, has about 9.4 million people as of 2024. It’s one of the most crowded countries, with 434 people per square kilometer. This density makes defense and security very challenging.

Most of Israel’s 91.3% population lives in big cities. Jerusalem, the capital, has almost 1 million people. Tel Aviv, the heart of business and culture, has over 430,000 residents. Haifa, the third-largest city, also adds to the urban landscape.

Israel’s population is growing fast, with a forecast of 9.5 million by 2025. This growth, along with the country’s small size, causes traffic jams and environmental issues. Experts say Israel’s roads will need a 30% increase by 2050 to handle the population and wealth increase.

The density of Israel’s cities and its strategic location in the Middle East shape its defense and security. Israel’s small size and close proximity to neighbors lead to ongoing conflicts and tensions.

“Israel’s population density is a unique challenge, but it also reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of the Israeli people. They have made the most of their limited land area, creating vibrant cities and a thriving economy.”

Water Resources and Drainage Systems

Israel is known for its smart water management, despite a big water shortage. Its dry climate and limited natural water sources are big challenges. The country depends on the Jordan River and groundwater like the Mountain Aquifer and the Coastal Aquifer.

The Jordan River and Its Tributaries

The Jordan River is key for Israel’s water. It flows through the Great Rift Valley. But, its water levels have dropped a lot because of dams and diversions.

Other rivers like the Yarqon, Qishon, and a part of the Yarmūk are also important. Sadly, many of these rivers only flow part of the year, making water even scarcer.

Israel also uses underground water, tapping into wells for water. The Mountain Aquifer gives about 600 MCM of water each year. This is a big part of Israel’s water use.

Despite these efforts, Israel’s water is always in demand. The country uses almost all its water, including from the West Bank, Golan, and Gaza.

Water Resource Contribution to Israel’s Water Supply
Jordan River and Tributaries Declining due to dam construction and diversion projects
Mountain Aquifer Provides around 600 MCM/yr, a third of Israel’s freshwater consumption
Coastal Aquifer Contributes about 240-300 MCM/yr to the Israeli water sector
Desalination Plants Provide 50% of all potable water in the country
Wastewater Reclamation Meets 50% of the total water demand for agriculture and 25% of the total water demand in Israel

As Israel’s water resources and drainage systems face ongoing challenges, the country continues to explore innovative solutions to ensure a sustainable water supply for its growing population and thriving economy.

israel water resources

Climate and Natural Resources

Israel’s geography and climate are diverse, providing many natural resources. The country has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cool, rainy winters. This climate is great for farming, from citrus to flowers.

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Israel also has valuable minerals. The Dead Sea is rich in potash, bromine, and magnesium. These minerals are used in many industries. Offshore gas fields, like the Tamar field, are also key for energy, helping the economy grow.

The Negev Desert in the south is flat and sandy, getting drier as you go south. It’s hard to farm there because of water scarcity. But, it’s perfect for solar energy, with many solar plants.

Israel is small and crowded, making it hard to manage resources. Water comes from the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. The country works hard to use water wisely for people and farming. Israel leads in sustainable water and energy, despite its challenges.

Natural Resource Description
Offshore Gas Fields Israel has significant natural gas reserves, including the Tamar gas field, which has become an important energy resource for the country.
Dead Sea Minerals The Dead Sea is a major source of valuable minerals such as potash, bromine, and magnesium, which are widely used in various industries.
Solar Energy The Negev Desert in southern Israel offers abundant solar energy resources, which have been harnessed through the development of numerous solar power plants.
Agricultural Resources Israel’s temperate climate and arable land support a range of agricultural activities, including citrus farming, vegetable production, and flower cultivation.
Water Resources The Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River are critical water sources for Israel, supporting its growing population and thriving agricultural sector.

In summary, Israel’s natural resources and climate are key to its growth. But, its size and population make managing resources tough. Israel’s focus on water and energy has made it a leader in sustainability.

Historical and Biblical Significance

The area now in Israel has a long and rich history. [https://israelhq.com/why-did-the-formation-of-israel-in-1948-lead-to-war/] It’s known as the “land of milk and honey” and holds deep historical and biblical significance. It was part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires before the Islamic caliphate took over in the 7th century CE.

The desire for a Jewish homeland led many Jews to move here in the 20th century. This effort culminated in the creation of the State of Israel in 1948. The biblical significance of the land of Israel is clear in the Hebrew Bible’s many references to it.

The Land of Milk and Honey

The Bible calls Israel the “land of milk and honey” because of its historical fertility and abundance. This phrase, found often in the Old Testament, highlights the land’s rich soil and its role in Israel’s history and identity.

Historical Period Timeline
Ancient Israel and Judah Iron Age I (12th to 10th centuries BCE) to 587 BCE
Second Temple Period Persian Yehud (538–333 BCE) to Herodian dynasty
Late Antiquity and Middle Ages Rabbinic period (70–638) to Mamluk Sultanate (1260–1517)
Modern History Ottoman rule (1517–1948) to establishment of Israel (1948)

The biblical boundaries of the land of Israel are detailed in Genesis 15:13–21, Genesis 17:8, and Ezekiel 47:13–20. These passages outline the territories given to the Israelite tribes. The region has seen about 600,000 years of human activity, with the earliest signs of humans dating back 1.5 million years.

israel biblical significance

“The Nile River was a significant location in the Bible, where Moses was placed and drawn out from when he was an infant.”

Israel’s Exclusive Economic Zone

Israel has a big exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the Mediterranean Sea. It stretches 130 km from the north and 204 km from the south of its coast. This area gives Israel the right to explore and use marine resources, like offshore gas fields.

Setting Israel’s maritime boundaries has led to talks and possible conflicts with neighbors. Israel’s EEZ does not go beyond 200 nautical miles from its territorial sea. This sea can be up to 12 nautical miles from the shore.

The Knesset is working on a Marine Areas Law. It aims to control activities in Israel’s EEZ, like oil and gas exploration. Companies doing this work must follow Israeli laws on resources, the environment, and money matters.

Coastal states like Israel have rights in their EEZs. They can explore and use resources, build artificial islands, and more for economic reasons. Not following Israeli rules can lead to legal trouble for companies and people.

Israel’s EEZ is key to its energy and security. But, it also brings challenges in dealing with neighbors and protecting the sea.

Characteristic Details
Size of Israel’s EEZ 26,352 km² (10,175 sq mi)
EEZ Extent from Coast 130 km (north) and 204 km (south)
Maximum EEZ Breadth 200 nautical miles (370.4 km)
Territorial Sea Breadth Up to 12 nautical miles (22.224 km)
Key Legislation Draft Marine Areas Law, Israeli laws on natural resources, environment, and fiscal matters
Potential Conflicts Disputes with neighboring countries over maritime boundaries and resource rights

The EEZ is vital for Israel’s sea area. It affects the country’s energy, environment, and relations with others. Israel must find a balance between using its EEZ and dealing with regional issues and protecting the sea.

Golan Heights and West Bank Territories

Israel’s control over the Golan Heights and West Bank has caused a lot of tension. The West Bank is 5,879 km2 (2,270 sq mi) big. East Jerusalem is 70 km2 (27 sq mi), and the Golan Heights is 1,150 km2 (444 sq mi).

Israel has taken over East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, but the world doesn’t recognize it. This has led to ongoing conflicts with Palestinians, making the area unstable.

The Golan Heights is a key area because of its strategic location. Israel took it in 1967 and made it part of Israel in 1981. The UN called this move wrong in Resolution 497.

Now, Israel controls most of the Golan Heights. It has about 40,000 to 50,000 people, mostly Druze Arabs and Jewish settlers.

The fight over the Golan Heights and West Bank is a big hurdle to peace. The world sees Israel’s actions as against the law, making things even more tense.

Territory Area Population Status
West Bank 5,879 km2 (2,270 sq mi) N/A Occupied by Israel
East Jerusalem 70 km2 (27 sq mi) N/A Annexed by Israel
Golan Heights 1,150 km2 (444 sq mi) 40,000-50,000+ Occupied and annexed by Israel

The Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights and West Bank is a big problem. It affects politics, economy, and people’s lives in the area.

israel golan heights

Defensive Strategies and the Iron Dome

Israel has found ways to protect itself despite its small size and close neighbors. The Israel Iron Dome is a key part of this defense. It shoots down rockets and missiles coming in. Experts say Israel’s size makes it easy for enemies to attack.

The Israel Iron Dome started working in 2011. It has stopped thousands of rockets, mostly from Gaza. It’s very good at this, but can get overwhelmed by too many rockets at once. Each missile costs $40,000 to $50,000, and the U.S. helps pay for it.

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Israel also uses other military strategies like cyberwarfare. It has systems like Arrow and David’s Sling to protect itself. The Israel Iron Beam, a laser system, is being developed to be even more effective.

The Israel Iron Dome has saved many lives, but it’s not a permanent fix. It helps, but Israel needs a lasting political solution. The system’s success shows the importance of keeping up with new technologies to stay safe.

Key Statistic Value
Iron Dome Interception Effectiveness Approximately 90%
Rockets Intercepted by Iron Dome Over 1,500
Number of Iron Dome Batteries 10 across Israel
Cost per Iron Dome Missile $40,000 to $50,000
U.S. Funding for Iron Dome $1.6 billion from 2011 to 2021, plus an additional $1 billion in 2022

“Israel’s compact geography and density make it vulnerable, with enemies literally outside its front door.”

Conclusion

Israel’s small size and diverse geography play big roles in the Middle East’s conflicts. Despite being small, Israel has mountains, deserts, and crowded cities. Its location near hostile countries makes security a big challenge.

But Israel has found ways to protect itself. It uses advanced systems like the Iron Dome to keep its people safe. Its unique israel geography, israel size, and israel area in the israel middle east shape its future.

Israel faces many challenges, but it’s shown it can defend itself. Its location in the Middle East will keep affecting its path. Israel’s geography is key to its future in the region.

FAQ

What is the size and area of Israel?

Israel is a small country with a total area of about 20,770 km2 (8,019 sq mi). This includes 445 km2 (172 sq mi) of inland water. It stretches 424 km (263 mi) from north to south and 114 km (71 mi) from east to west at its widest.

At its narrowest, it’s just 15 km (9 mi) wide. Israel has a land frontier of 1,017 km (632 mi) and a coastline of 273 km (170 mi). It ranks 150th in the world by total area.

Where is Israel located and what are its borders?

Israel is at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea in West Asia. It borders Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan and the West Bank to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. The Mediterranean Sea lies to the west, making up most of Israel’s coastline and the Gaza Strip.

Israel also has a small Red Sea coastline in the south.

How does the size of Israel compare to the United States?

Israel’s area of about 20,770 km2 (8,019 sq mi) is much smaller than the United States. The U.S. has a total area of roughly 3.8 million square miles. New Jersey, similar in size to Israel, has a population of about 9.3 million people.

The U.S. has an estimated population of 333 million people, with a much lower density.

What are the four physiographic regions of Israel?

Israel is divided into four main regions. The Mediterranean coastal plain is a narrow strip along the coast. The Central Hills include mountains and hills in the north and west.

The Jordan Rift Valley runs the length of the country, with the Jordan River and Dead Sea inside. The Negev Desert covers the southern half, becoming increasingly arid.

How has Israel’s small size and proximity to neighboring countries contributed to conflicts?

Israel’s small size and location have led to decades of conflict. It borders Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, all of which have fought against Israel. Its compact geography makes it vulnerable to attack.

What are the dimensions and land area of Israel?

Israel has a total area of about 20,770 km2 (8,019 sq mi), including 445 km2 (172 sq mi) of inland water. It stretches 424 km (263 mi) from north to south and 114 km (71 mi) from east to west at its widest.

At its narrowest, it’s just 15 km (9 mi) wide. Israel has a land frontier of 1,017 km (632 mi) and a coastline of 273 km (170 mi). It ranks 150th in the world by total area.

What is the diverse terrain and landscape of Israel like?

Despite its small size, Israel has a varied landscape. The north has snow-capped mountains, while the south is arid desert. The highest point, Mount Meron, is in the north.

The central highlands are about 610 meters (2,001 ft) high. The Negev Desert covers over half of the country’s land area.

What is the population and population density of Israel?

Israel has a population of about 9.3 million people. Its population density is around 1,098 people per square mile. This makes it one of the most densely populated countries.

It’s similar to New Jersey, which also has a high population density.

What are Israel’s water resources and drainage systems?

Israel faces a chronic water shortage. It uses about three-fourths of its water for irrigation. The rest is for industrial and household use.

The main drainage system includes Lake Tiberias and the Jordan River. Other rivers include the Yarqon, Qishon, and a small section of the Yarmūk. Most streams are seasonal and flow as wadis.

What is the climate and natural resources in Israel?

Israel has a Mediterranean climate. It has long, hot summers and short, cool winters. The country has offshore gas fields and minerals from the Dead Sea.

The Negev Desert in the south is flat and sandy, becoming increasingly arid.

What is the historical and biblical significance of the land of Israel?

The land of Israel has a long history, dating back to prebiblical times. It was part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires before becoming part of the Islamic caliphate in the 7th century CE.

The desire for a Jewish homeland led to the establishment of Israel in 1948. The land is known as the “land of milk and honey” for its fertility.

What are the occupied territories and maritime boundaries of Israel?

Israel occupies the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. These areas are not recognized by the international community. Israel also has an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Mediterranean Sea.

How has Israel adapted to its small size and proximity to hostile neighbors?

Israel has developed defensive strategies and technologies to protect itself. The Iron Dome air defense system is one example. Israel also uses cyberwarfare and other advanced technologies to defend its territory and people.

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