Fact Check: "Israel is located in the Middle East."
What We Know
Israel is geographically situated in the region known as the Middle East, specifically at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea in West Asia. It shares borders with several countries: Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. The Mediterranean Sea lies to the west of Israel, providing it with a significant coastline of approximately 273 kilometers (170 miles) (Geography of Israel, Israel).
The area of Israel is around 20,770 square kilometers (8,019 square miles), which includes both land and inland water (Geography of Israel). The country is characterized by diverse geographical features, including deserts in the south and mountainous regions in the north (Geography of Israel).
Analysis
The claim that "Israel is located in the Middle East" is supported by multiple credible sources. The Geography of Israel explicitly states that Israel is located at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea in West Asia, confirming its position within the Middle Eastern region. Additionally, the Encyclopædia Britannica also categorizes Israel as a country in the Middle East, further validating the geographical classification.
The sources used are reliable and well-regarded in academic and educational contexts. Wikipedia entries, while user-edited, often cite reputable references and are frequently updated to reflect accurate information. The Encyclopædia Britannica is a long-established reference work known for its scholarly rigor. Therefore, the information presented in these sources can be considered credible.
Conclusion
The claim that "Israel is located in the Middle East" is True. The geographical positioning of Israel, as outlined in various credible sources, confirms that it is indeed situated in the Middle East, bordered by several countries and the Mediterranean Sea.
