Israel's population tolls 6.8 million

The central statistics department in Israel yesterday published information saying that number of the population of Israel in 2005 reached 6.862 million.

The Israeli daily Yediot Ahronot said that it is clear from the information that 5.235 million ( 76%) of the total population of Israel are Jews while the Arabs represent 20% and that there are 290,000 others of the new arrivals and their families registered as non- Jews in the ministry of the interior.

Information show that number of Israel's population increased in 2004 at 114,000 which represents an increase at a rate of 1.7% in comparison with 2003. These rates on increase are considered the lowest since 1990.

The report said that the main reason behind the reduction in the pace of population number is the recession in the number of new emigrants. The Israeli ministry of ( receiving new migrants) said on Wednesday that 22,101 arrived in Israel in 2004. The ministry added that this number is considered the greatest reduction since 1989. Statistics added that 143,000 Israelis were born in 2004 in Israel.