As an expert in the field of cultural and ethnic studies, it is important to clarify that the concept of "race" is a complex and often misunderstood term. It is not a scientifically valid way to categorize human beings, as all humans belong to the same species, Homo sapiens. The term "race" has been historically used to segregate and discriminate against different groups of people based on physical characteristics, which has led to significant social and political issues. When discussing Israel, it is more accurate to talk about ethnic and cultural backgrounds rather than race. Israel is a diverse country with a rich tapestry of ethnicities and cultures. The largest ethnic group in Israel is Jewish, which itself encompasses a wide range of backgrounds and traditions. Jews have a long history and have lived in many different parts of the world, leading to a rich diversity within the Jewish community. The information provided mentions that Jews (75%) are the largest ethnic group in Israel, followed by Arabs (20%) and other minorities (5%). This is a demographic breakdown based on self-identification and cultural heritage rather than race. Among the Jewish population, there is a significant diversity. Many Jews in Israel are descended from both Ashkenazi and Mizrahi Jews. Ashkenazi Jews are those who historically lived in Central and Eastern Europe, while Mizrahi Jews have roots in the Middle East and North Africa. The Ashkenazi and Mizrahi Jews have distinct cultural and religious practices, which have been influenced by the regions where they lived. For example, there are differences in the way they celebrate Jewish holidays, the foods they eat, and even the languages they speak. Some Mizrahi Jews speak Judeo-Arabic languages, which are a mix of Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting their historical connection to the Arab world. It is also important to note that more than 50% of the Jewish population in Israel is of at least partial Mizrahi descent. This highlights the significant contribution of Mizrahi Jews to the cultural and social fabric of Israel. The blending of these diverse Jewish traditions has created a unique Israeli identity that is a mosaic of different Jewish experiences from around the world. In addition to the Jewish and Arab populations, Israel is also home to other ethnic groups, including but not limited to Druze, Circassians, and Bedouin communities. Each of these groups has its own distinct culture, language, and traditions, contributing to the overall diversity of the country. In conclusion, when discussing the people of Israel, it is essential to focus on the rich diversity of ethnicities and cultures rather than the concept of race. Israel's population is made up of a variety of ethnic groups, each with its own unique history and cultural practices. Understanding and respecting this diversity is crucial for fostering a society that is inclusive and harmonious. read more >>

The largest ethnic groups in Israel are Jews (75%), followed by Arabs (20%) and other minorities (5%). Among the Jewish population, hundreds of thousands of Jews born in Israel are descended from both Ashkenazi and Mizrahi Jews. More than 50% of the Jewish population is of at least partial Mizrahi descent.read more >>