What is Palestine?
ما هي فلسطين؟
Palestine is a country in the Eastern Mediterranean region, located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. Encompassing the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, it is collectively known as the occupied Palestinian territories, and is recognized by 146 out of 193 UN member states. Palestine shares most of its borders with Jordan to the east, Lebanon to the north, and Egypt to the southwest. It has a total land area of 6,020 square kilometres (2,320 sq mi) and its population exceeds five million people. Its proclaimed capital is Jerusalem, while Ramallah serves as its administrative center. Gaza City is its largest city.
Palestinians are religiously, ethnically and linguistically considered part of the Arab world. The culture of Palestine has had a heavy influence on religion, arts, literature, sports architecture, and cinema. The culture of Palestine is an amalgamation of indigenous traditions, Arab customs, and the heritage of various empires that have ruled the region. The land of Palestine has witnessed the presence of ancient civilizations such as the Canaanites, Philistines, and Israelites, each contributing to its cultural fabric, while the Arab conquest in the 7th century brought the influence of Islam, which has been a cornerstone of Palestinian identity ever since. Islamic traditions, including language, art, and architecture, have infused the culture with distinct features.
Palestinian cultural expression often serves as a form of resistance against occupation and oppression. Examples of this cultural resistance can be found in street art, such as the work of Banksy in Bethlehem, and the annual Palestinian music and arts festival, Al-Mahatta, as well as a broad range of literature, television and media demonstrating a rich cultural heritage.