Palestine facts for kids

For the geographical region, see Palestine (region). For other uses, see Palestine (disambiguation).

Quick facts for kids State of Palestine دولة فلسطين (Arabic) Dawlat Filasṭīn
Flag Coat of arms
Anthem: فدائي (Fidāʾī; "Warrior")
Show globe Map of Palestine Occupied Palestinian territories Territory annexed by Israel
Status	UN observer state under Israeli occupation Recognized by 147 UN member states
Capital Administrative center	Jerusalem (limited recognition) Ramallah
Largest city	Gaza City (before 2023), currently in flux
Official languages	Arabic
Ethnic groups (2007)	89.1% Palestinian Arabs 10.9% other
Religion (2020)	80.73% Islam (official) 71.21% Sunni 0.09% Shia 9.42% other 13.07% Judaism 0.88% Christianity 0.05% Baha'i Faith 5.27% irreligion
Demonym(s)	Palestinian
Government	Unitary provisional semi-presidential republic

• President	Mahmoud Abbas
• Vice President	Hussein al-Sheikh
• Prime Minister	Mohammad Mustafa

Legislature	Legislative Council
Formation

• Declaration of Independence	15 November 1988
• Sovereignty dispute with Israel	Ongoing

Area
• Total	6,020 km² (2,320 sq mi) (163rd)
• Water (%)	3.5
• West Bank	5,655 km²
• Gaza Strip	365 km²
Population
• 2023 estimate	5,483,450 (121st)
• Density	731/km² (1,893.3/sq mi)
GDP (PPP)	2023 estimate
• Total	$36.391 billion (138th)
• Per capita	$6,642 (140th)
GDP (nominal)	2021 estimate
• Total	$18.109 billion (121st)
• Per capita	$3,464 (131st)
Gini (2016)	▼ 33.7 medium
HDI (2023)	0.674 medium · 133rd
Currency	Egyptian pound (EGP) Israeli new shekel (ILS) Jordanian dinar (JOD) (de facto)
Time zone	UTC+2 (Palestine Standard Time)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+3 (Palestine Summer Time)
Calling code	+970
ISO 3166 code	PS
Internet TLD	.ps

Palestine, officially known as the State of Palestine, is a country located in West Asia. It is recognized by many countries around the world. Palestine includes the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, which are areas under Israeli control. These areas are often called the occupied Palestinian territories.

Palestine shares most of its borders with Israel. The West Bank borders Jordan to the east, and the Gaza Strip borders Egypt to the southwest. The total land area is about 6,020 square kilometers, and over five million people live there. While Jerusalem is its declared capital, Ramallah serves as its main administrative center. Before 2023, Gaza City was its largest city.

This region has been important for many empires and has seen many changes over time. It is a sacred place for several religions. The area has experienced an ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians for many years. This conflict has led to many challenges for the people of Palestine. These challenges include restrictions on movement, the building of Israeli communities in the West Bank, and a difficult security situation.

Despite these challenges, Palestine has a growing economy and attracts many visitors. Arabic is the official language. Most Palestinians follow Islam, but there are also many Christians. Palestine is part of several international groups, like the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Understanding the Name Palestine
A Look at Palestine's History
Palestine's Geography
- Palestine's Climate
- Wildlife and Nature in Palestine
Government and How Palestine is Run
Palestine's Economy
People and Culture of Palestine
Palestinian Culture and Traditions
Images for kids
See also

Understanding the Name Palestine

The name "Palestine" comes from an ancient Greek word, which itself came from a Semitic name for this region. This name has been used for the area at the southeastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea next to Syria for a very long time.

A Look at Palestine's History

The land of Palestine has a very long and rich history. Many different groups and empires have ruled this region over thousands of years.

From Ancient Times to the Ottoman Empire

For centuries, the region was a crossroads for traders and armies from different parts of the world. It was a place where many cultures met and mixed. The Ottoman Empire ruled Palestine for a long time, from the 1500s until the early 1900s.

The British Mandate Era

After World War I, the Ottoman Empire ended its rule. In 1920, Britain was given the responsibility to govern Palestine by the League of Nations. This period was known as the British Mandate. During this time, more Jewish people moved to Palestine, which led to disagreements and sometimes violence between Jewish and Arab communities.

In 1947, the United Nations suggested a plan to divide Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. Jewish leaders accepted this plan, but Arab leaders did not.

The Arab-Israeli Wars and New Borders

In 1948, a war began, leading to the creation of the State of Israel. Many Palestinians had to leave their homes during this time. In 1967, another major conflict, the Six-Day War, resulted in Israel taking control of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. These areas had previously been controlled by Jordan and Egypt.

The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) declared Palestine's independence in 1988. Later, in the 1990s, the PLO and Israel signed agreements called the Oslo Accords. These agreements created the Palestinian Authority (PA), which began to govern parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Recent Challenges and Conflicts

Since 1967, Israel has built many communities, called settlements, in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. These settlements are considered by many countries to be against international law.

In late 2023, a major conflict began in Gaza. This conflict caused widespread damage, led to many people needing to move from their homes, and created a serious need for food and help. The conflict also affected the West Bank, causing more challenges for people there.

Today, the West Bank is partly governed by the Fatah political group, while the Gaza Strip is controlled by another group called Hamas. The future of Palestine's borders, the status of Jerusalem, and the return of Palestinian refugees are still important issues that need to be resolved.

Palestine's Geography

Mount Gerizim, near Nablus, is a holy site for Samaritans.

Palestine is located in the Middle East, in a region called the Southern Levant. It is part of the Fertile Crescent, a historical area known for its rich soil. The Gaza Strip is next to the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Egypt to the south, and Israel to the north and east. The West Bank borders Jordan to the east and Israel on its other sides.

The West Bank is a mountainous area with hills and valleys. Mount Nabi Yunis is its highest point. Jerusalem is located on a high plateau. Palestine is also home to the Jordan River, which flows into the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, and the nearby city of Jericho is the lowest city in the world.

Palestine has some environmental concerns, like water shortages and soil problems, especially in the Gaza Strip.

Palestine's Climate

The climate in the West Bank is mostly Mediterranean, meaning it has mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Areas at higher elevations are a bit cooler. The eastern part of the West Bank, near the Dead Sea, is very dry and hot. Gaza has a hot, semi-dry climate with mild winters and dry, hot summers. Rain usually falls between November and March.

Wildlife and Nature in Palestine

Camels can be found in the Judaean Desert.

While Palestine does not have official national parks, some areas are protected for their natural beauty and wildlife. Wadi Qelt, a desert valley near Jericho, is known for its unique plants and animals, natural springs, and historical sites. The Judaean Desert is home to special camels. The Qalqilya Zoo is the only active zoo in the country.

Government and How Palestine is Run

President
Mahmoud Abbas

Prime Minister
Mohammad Mustafa

The Palestinian Legislative Council building in Ramallah.

Palestine has a government system where there is both a President and a Prime Minister. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) represents Palestine and has a network of foreign relations.

The Palestinian Authority (PA) is the main governing body. It has a President, a Parliament (the Palestinian Legislative Council), and a Cabinet. The current President is Mahmoud Abbas, who has served since 2005. Mohammad Mustafa became the Prime Minister in 2024.

The Palestinian government is divided geographically. The Fatah party governs the West Bank, while the Hamas group controls the Gaza Strip. These two groups have different political ideas.

Palestine claims Jerusalem as its capital, but the city is under Israeli control. Ramallah serves as the temporary administrative center, where many government offices are located.

Administrative Areas of Palestine

Palestinian Governorates (official)

Palestinian controlled areas

Palestine is divided into sixteen administrative areas called governorates. In the West Bank, these areas are further divided into three zones:

Area A: This is about 18% of the West Bank and is fully managed by the Palestinian government.
Area B: This covers 22% of the West Bank. The Palestinian government handles civilian matters, but security is shared with Israel.
Area C: This is the largest part, about 60% of the West Bank. It is mainly managed by Israel. However, the Palestinian government provides education and health services to Palestinians living there. Many Israeli communities are located in Area C.

East Jerusalem is also claimed by Palestine as part of its Jerusalem Governorate. However, Israel has applied its laws to East Jerusalem, and it is administered as part of Israel's Jerusalem District.

Palestine's Foreign Relations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah in 2018.

Palestine has diplomatic relationships with many countries around the world. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) represents Palestine and has embassies in countries that recognize it. Palestine is also a member or observer in many international organizations.

Currently, 146 out of 193 United Nations member states recognize the State of Palestine. In 2012, the UN General Assembly voted to give Palestine "non-member observer state" status, which means it can participate in many UN activities.

Many Arab and Islamic countries strongly support Palestine in its conflict with Israel. Some countries, like Spain, Norway, and Ireland, have recently recognized Palestine as a state.

Palestine's Status and Recognition

State of Palestine Countries that have recognized Palestine Countries that have announced their impending recognition of Palestine (France, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, Australia) Countries that have announced their conditional, impending recognition of Palestine (United Kingdom, Canada) Countries that have not recognized Palestine

The PLO declared the State of Palestine on November 15, 1988. Many countries and legal experts have different views on its exact legal status. However, its recognition by the UN as a non-member observer state in 2012 was a big step. This status is similar to that of the Holy See (Vatican City).

In 2015, the UN allowed Palestine to raise its flag at the United Nations headquarters, a moment of pride for Palestinians. In 2024, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution recognizing Palestine's right to become a full member state and allowed it to participate more in the assembly.

Security and Defense in Palestine

A gathering for the 25th anniversary of Hamas in Gaza, 2012.

The Palestinian Security Services (PSS) are responsible for keeping internal peace and enforcing laws in areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority. They include a Civil Police Force and National Security Forces.

Before the Oslo Accords, the PLO had an armed branch called the Palestine Liberation Army. Today, this group is mostly inactive. Other groups, like Hamas, also have their own security forces, especially in the Gaza Strip. These groups have been involved in conflicts with Israel.

Palestine's Economy

Palestine is considered a developing country. Its economy relies a lot on help from other countries, money sent by Palestinians living abroad, and local businesses. In 2023, the country's total economic output was about $40 billion.

Construction in Rawabi, a planned Palestinian city.

The economy faces many challenges due to the ongoing conflict and restrictions on movement and trade. These restrictions have made it hard for businesses to grow and for people to find jobs. For example, moving goods between areas can be difficult and costly.

Farming in Palestine

After 1967, Palestinian farming faced many difficulties. The amount of land used for farming decreased, and farmers faced challenges in selling their products. Restrictions on water use have also affected agriculture. Olive trees are very important in Palestine, with about 45% of the land used for growing them.

Water and Sanitation

Water supply and sanitation in Palestine are major concerns, largely due to water shortages and the political situation. Water resources are partly controlled by Israel. Water quality is generally worse in the Gaza Strip. Many efforts are being made to improve water and wastewater treatment, often with international help.

Manufacturing and Industry

Palestine's manufacturing sector includes textiles, food processing, medicines, and building materials. Important products include olive oil, furniture, and ceramics. Hebron is a very industrial city and a major center for Palestinian exports. Some international companies also operate in Palestine.

Energy Resources

A solar power plant in Jericho.

Palestine does not produce its own oil or gas, so it imports most of its energy from neighboring countries like Israel and Egypt. However, there are believed to be significant oil and gas reserves off the coast of Gaza and beneath the West Bank.

To reduce its reliance on imported energy, Palestine is focusing more on solar energy. Several solar power plants have been built or are planned across the country.

Transportation in Palestine

Palestine's two airports, Jerusalem International Airport and Gaza International Airport, were damaged during past conflicts and are not currently operating. Palestinians often travel through airports in Israel or Jordan. There have been proposals to build new airports.

The Port of Gaza is the only seaport in Palestine, but it is under a naval blockade. Plans for an international seaport have been discussed but have not been completed.

Tourism in Palestine

Jerusalem is a holy city for Christians, Muslims, and Jews.

Tourism is important for Palestine, especially in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. In 2010, over 4.6 million people visited these areas. Many visitors come to see the sacred sites.

Places like the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem attract many pilgrims. Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, is also a very popular destination. Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world, is another popular spot.

Communications and Technology

Palestine has a growing technology industry. In 2020, there were over 4.2 million mobile phone users. Most Palestinian homes have a mobile phone, and many have internet access. The World Bank has supported projects to help the IT sector grow and create jobs for young people.

Financial Services

A bank in Salfit.

Palestine has a banking system with several local and international banks. The Palestine Monetary Authority oversees these banks. The banking sector has grown significantly over the years, with more deposits and loans. However, Palestine does not have its own currency.

People and Culture of Palestine

Population and Demographics

As of 2021, the population of Palestine was estimated to be over 5.2 million people. The population density is quite high, with many people living in a relatively small area.

Many Palestinians live outside of Palestine, in what is known as the Palestinian diaspora. This is because many people had to leave their homes during past conflicts, especially in 1948. They now live in neighboring Arab countries, other parts of the Middle East, and countries like the United States and Europe.

Religions in Palestine

Religion of Palestinians (2017 census)

Islam			98.97%
Christianity			1.00%
Other			0.03%

Palestine is a land with deep religious significance, considered holy by many faiths. Islam is the official religion, and most Palestinians are Muslim, mainly following the Sunni branch.

There is also a notable community of Palestinian Christians, especially in cities like Bethlehem. Smaller religious groups, such as Baháʼís and Samaritans, also live in Palestine. The Basic Law of Palestine ensures freedom of religion for everyone.

Holy sites in Palestine
Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is one of the holiest sites in Islam.
The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is very important for Christians.
Mount Gerizim is a sacred place for Samaritans.
The Cave of the Patriarchs is a holy site for Jews, Muslims, and Christians.
Nabi Musa is believed to be the tomb of Moses in Islamic traditions.
The Jericho synagogue is maintained by the Palestinian Authority.
The Nabi Yahya Mosque is said to contain the tomb of John the Baptist.

Languages Spoken in Palestine

Arabic is the official language of Palestine, and Palestinian Arabic is the most common dialect. Many people also speak Hebrew and English. Some Israeli settlers in the West Bank speak Hebrew as their main language.

Diverse Ethnic Groups

Armenians participating in a parade in Jerusalem.

Most Palestinians are of Arab descent. There are also Bedouin communities, especially in the West Bank. Palestine is home to many non-Arab ethnic groups who hold Palestinian citizenship. These include Kurds, Assyrians, Romani, and Armenians, many of whom live around Jerusalem.

Education for Palestinian Youth

Students at Birzeit University.

Palestine has a high literacy rate of 96.3%, which is very good compared to global standards. The education system is managed by the Ministry of Education and includes primary, preparatory, and secondary schools. Subjects like Arabic, English, math, science, and religious studies are taught.

There are 14 universities and many colleges and schools across the West Bank and Gaza Strip. An-Najah National University and Al-Quds University are among the largest and most respected universities.

Healthcare in Palestine

A hospital in Bethlehem.

Palestine has many primary healthcare centers and hospitals. The Ministry of Health works with international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide healthcare services. The largest hospital in the West Bank is in Nablus, and Al-Shifa Hospital is the largest in the Gaza Strip.

Palestinian Culture and Traditions

Streets of the Old City, Jerusalem at night during Ramadan.

Palestinian culture is a mix of ancient traditions, Arab customs, and influences from various empires that have ruled the region. It is recognized by UNESCO. Palestinian culture is often expressed through art, music, literature, and sports.

The Old City of Jerusalem, with its important religious sites, holds great cultural and historical value. Other significant cultural sites include the ancient city of Jericho and the town of Bethlehem. Many cultural centers exist in major cities across Palestine.

Architecture in Palestine

Rawabi features a large Roman amphitheater.

Palestinian architecture shows a rich history, influenced by Islamic, Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman styles. Traditional buildings often use local stone and feature arched doorways and domes. Mosques, like the Al-Aqsa Mosque, show beautiful Islamic craftsmanship.

Modern architecture is also growing, blending traditional designs with new styles. The Palestinian Museum in Birzeit is a great example of this mix. The Palestine Trade Tower in Ramallah is the tallest building in Palestine.

Art, Music, and Clothing

Singer Mohammed Assaf.

Traditional Palestinian music uses instruments like the oud and qanun. Folk songs often tell stories of love and daily life. Dabke is a lively Palestinian folk dance performed at celebrations. Artists like Mohammed Assaf have gained international fame for their music.

Palestinian pop and hip-hop music are also popular, with artists using their songs to share stories about their experiences. Traditional Palestinian clothing is colorful and often features intricate embroidery.

Palestinian children in traditional dress.

Media and News

Palestine has several newspapers, news agencies, and television stations that provide information to its people. Some of the main news agencies include Ma'an News Agency and Wafa.

Palestinian Cinema

Palestinian filmmaking is active, especially in Jerusalem, Ramallah, and Bethlehem. Many Palestinian actors and directors have become well-known. Films often explore the Palestinian experience and the challenges faced in the region. The Palestinian Film Festival showcases these movies around the world.

Sports and Athletics

The Faisal Al-Husseini International Stadium in Al-Ram, Jerusalem.

Association football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Palestine. The Palestine national football team competes internationally and is part of FIFA. The Faisal Al-Husseini International Stadium in Jerusalem is the largest stadium.

Palestine has participated in the Olympic Games since 1996, with athletes competing in various sports like athletics and swimming. Basketball, handball, and volleyball are also popular.