A Diverse Nation: The Social Fabric of Israel (Written by the Israel Digital Center. Date of writing: 25/09/25)

Home to Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and others. united by shared rights and mutual respect.

Israel may be a small country, but its population is a vast mosaic of cultures, religions, and traditions. home to over 10 million people. Alongside the Jewish majority live Arabs, Muslims, Christians, and Druze, as well as other communities such as Bedouins, Circassians, and Samaritans. Each group has its unique identity, yet all are integral parts of Israeli society, enjoying freedom of religion, political representation, and full legal rights.

Israeli Society: A Composition of 10 Million Residents

Jews comprise about 77% of the population and are divided into various groups – Mizrahi and Ashkenazi, Ultra-Orthodox, Religious, Secular, and others. Each brings its own culture, traditions, and perspectives on life in the country.

Arabs make up about 21% of the population, including Muslims, Christians, and Druze, each contributing their own cultural and social traditions. Most Arab communities are located in northern Israel, Haifa, and Jerusalem, though there are also populations in the center and south. Within the Arab sector, there are smaller groups such as the Circassians (around 4,000 people) and Bedouins (around 150,000).

Others – About 2.1% of residents do not belong to these categories, including Samaritans, Armenians, non-Arab Christians, and others.

The Arab Population in Israel
The Arab population has experienced significant changes over the decades. In 1948, many left following the establishment of the state, but Israel later allowed around 200,000 to return and settle within its borders. Since then, hundreds of thousands of Arabs have been granted Israeli citizenship, mainly through family reunification.

Representation and Political Life
Although a minority, Arab citizens hold meaningful representation in Israel’s political system. Today, Arab members of the Knesset represent a range of parties and ideologies — from nationalist movements to those promoting Jewish-Arab cooperation. Arab professionals also serve across the public sector: in the justice system, civil service, healthcare, academia, and the security forces.

Culture, Religion, and Coexistence
Israeli cities reflect this rich diversity — Jewish cities, Arab cities, and mixed cities, each with its own character. Across the country, there are over 250 mosques, 60 churches and monasteries, and numerous synagogues — evidence of Israel’s religious pluralism. Freedom of religion is protected by law, and the rights of all faiths are upheld. For example, Jewish visits to the Temple Mount are restricted to preserve the site’s sanctity for Muslims. In daily life, Muslim employees are entitled to holidays during Islamic festivals, and education for Arab citizens is provided in their own language and cultural framework.

Progress and Inclusion
Israel continues to invest in developing Arab communities, infrastructure, and workforce integration. Government and NGO programs encourage Arab participation in high-tech, medicine, and education. Around 20% of university students in Israel are Arabs — a promising sign of social mobility and shared progress.

A Reality of Coexistence
While Israel is often accused internationally of racism or even “genocide” toward Arabs, the reality is entirely different. Israel actively promotes equality, civil rights, and coexistence for all its citizens — Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and others. The diversity, integration, and continuous efforts to close social and economic gaps prove that in this small country, coexistence is not just an idea — it’s a daily practice.