Location: Israel is on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in the Middle East between the contries of Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. Its geographic coordinates are 31 30 N, 34 45 E.
Area: The total land and water area of Israel is 20,770 sq km. This is an area slightly smaller than the U.S. state of New Jersey.
Climate and Terrain: Israel has a temperate climate in most parts, but it is very hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas (known as the Negev). Low coastal plain area on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea give rise to the Judaean Mountains in the central part of Israel.
Elevation extremes: The lowest point of Israel is the Dead Sea at 408 m (1302 ft) below sea level, and the highest point is Mount Meron at 1208 m (3692 ft) above sea level.
Info from About.com
The most valuble natural resource to the Israeli people is water. Much of the conflict in the Middle East is due to this natural resource. In the future, disputes over the large money-making resources of fossil fuels will give way to even larger disputs over the life-giving resource, water.
The low coastal plain land along the Mediterranean Sea is fertile and well-watered. Most of the rest of Israel is very dry and is unusable for crops unless irrigation is used. This irrigation water comes from mostly the Jordan River, Yarmouk River, several aquifers, and the Sea of Galilee. These sources are not inexhaustable. The Sea of Galilee continues to drop in depth, and the Jordan River does not reach the Dead Sea anymore. The aquifers are being overused as well.
This lack of water has only caused more conflict between conflicting groups such as the Israelis and the Palestinians. Several treaties have been signed between Israel and its neighbors regarding water, but the Israelis have yet to end the debate with the Palestinians.
Several solutions to the water shortage problem have been proposed. Drip irrigation as well as recycling sewage water are two techniques already widely utilized in Israel. Israel is working with the U.S. in developing new desalination techniques although this is a very expensive solution. Another solution would be more conservation. Israelis, like Americans, waste much water. They could initiate steps such as increasing the price of freshwater or just not using as much water.
This info was taken from several sites and sources:
-The 2000 World Almanac
-American-Israeli Cooperation Enterprise
-Geen Cross International
-International Desalination Association
-CNN News Archives
-Microirrigation Forum
-ABC Country Book is put up by the U.S. Immigration Department and gives alot of helpful geography info about Israel
-IGM Tours brings tour groups to see the wonderful geography and Biblical history first hand. The tours can be customized to certain areas or certain goals such as educational or spiritual.