Demographic Development of Iran and Israel: 75 Years of Contrasting Trends

Over the past seventy-five and a half years, Iran’s population has shown impressive growth, transforming the country into one of the most populated regions in the Middle East. At the same time, these processes have occurred quite differently than in neighboring countries. The demographic history of the two countries reflects their very different socio-political development paths.

Iran’s Population: From 16 Million to 92 Million in Seven Decades

Iran’s population growth dynamics are remarkable in scale. In 1950, the country had approximately 16.8 million people. By the beginning of the new millennium, this number reached 65.5 million, and in 2020, it exceeded 87 million. As of 2026, Iran’s population is estimated at around 92.4 million.

This rapid growth is driven by several factors: reduced child mortality due to healthcare development, traditionally high birth rates after the 1979 revolution, and improved living conditions. Every decade has seen an increase of at least 5-6 million people, demonstrating steady demographic growth.

Israel: Slower but Steady Growth

The trajectory of Israel’s demographic development looks quite different. In 1950, Israel had only 1.37 million people, and over 75 years, the population increased approximately sevenfold, reaching 9.7 million in 2025. This growth was also significant but occurred more evenly and more slowly than in neighboring countries.

Demographic differences reflect different migration policies, waves of immigration from various regions of the world, and diverse socio-economic conditions. Israel received waves of refugees and settlers from Europe, Arab countries, and later from the former Soviet Union, which contributed to population growth alongside natural reproduction.

Key Differences in Demographic Trajectories

Comparing the demographic growth indicators of both countries reveals fundamental differences. Iran’s population increased from 16.8 million to nearly 5.5 times that amount over 75 years, while Israel’s population grew sevenfold but from a much lower absolute number. Iran’s growth rate in percentage terms was higher (especially in the 1980s-1990s), whereas Israel maintained more stable growth rates throughout the period.

These trends demonstrate how history, politics, and social factors shape the demographic patterns of the region. Iran’s population continues to grow, although growth has slowed in recent years, while Israel has stabilized at around 9.7-10 million people.