Israel is an independent state in the Middle East. It is surrounded by Lebanon on the north, Syria on the northeast, Jordan on the east and Egypt on the southwest. The country is divided into four regions. The rift valley, which includes the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River; the coastal plain along the sea, the central mountains and the Negev Desert. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth.

Although most of the land is barren, there are sections that produce bananas, cotton, grapes, tobacco, dates, figs and olives. Climate is subtropical with some rain in the winter months.

Predominately Jewish, Israel is forever plagued with strife with its Arab neighbors, particularly the Palestinians who believe the country belongs to them.

The capital city of Israel is Jerusalem. Language is Hebrew and Arabic.