Tel Aviv

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Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv-Yafo) City and port in Israel, on the Mediterranean Sea, c.50km (30mi) w of Jerusalem. The business, cultural, communications and tourist centre of Israel, it was founded (1909) as a suburb of the port of Jaffa. During the British administration of Palestine (1923–48), the town grew rapidly as Jews fled persecution in Europe. It served as the seat of the transitional government and legislature of the new state of Israel (1948–49), until the capital moved to Jerusalem. In 1950, it merged with Jaffa. Industries: construction, textiles, clothing. Pop. (1997 est.) 348,570.

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