State of Palestine

The territory comprises two separate landmasses: the West Bank with hilly terrain east of Israel and the Gaza Strip, a narrow coastal area along the Mediterranean Sea, together covering approximately 2,320 square miles (6,020 square kilometers).

Following decades of conflict, the Palestine Liberation Organization proclaimed independence in 1988. The Oslo Accords of 1993 created limited self-governance, while over 130 UN member states have recognized statehood, whose full status remains contested.

Palestinian communities preserve heritage through olive oil soap production, maintenance of ancient agricultural terraces, and traditional cooking with regional ingredients like sumac and za'atar passed down through generations.

Travelers require Israeli permits for access and pass through multiple checkpoints. Administration divides between the Palestinian National Authority in the West Bank and a separate government in Gaza, with movement subject to substantial restrictions.

Ramallah serves as provisional administrative seat for governmental functions, though East Jerusalem is officially claimed as capital, a situation arising from ongoing territorial disputes and international non-recognition of that claim.

Inception: November 15, 1988

Founders: Palestine Liberation Organization

Capital city: Jerusalem

Part of: Middle East, West Asia, Palestine, Levant, Asia, Israel and The Occupied Territories

Shares border with: Israel, Egypt, Jordan

Website: https://president.ps

GPS coordinates: 32.00000,35.25000

Latest update: November 30, 2025 16:07