Official Name: State of Israel
Population: 7,282,000
Capital: Jerusalem - Pop. 747,600
Area: 20,770 sq. km. / 12,906 sq. miles.
Language: Hebrew, Arabic, English
Religion: Judaism
Status of Homosexuality: Legal
Telephone Country Code: 972
Israel is the world's only Jewish state. It is considered one of the most advanced countries in the Middle East in economic and industrial development. In 2007, Israel had the 22nd-highest gross domestic product per capita of US$33,299. The country is considered the most progressive and tolerant country in the Middle East in terms of gay rights. Common law marriage has already been achieved (which grants most of the official marriage rights to the spouse), but full official gay marriage has not yet been sanctioned. However, same-sex marriages performed elsewhere are recognized. Israel, Jordan, Turkey, and Cyprus are the only countries in the Middle East where homosexuality between consenting adults in private is not illegal and homosexuals are not persecuted under law. Israel is the only country in the Middle East where homosexuals are protected by anti-discrimination laws. Read More. Also see: Islam and Homosexuality.
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