What is a 'country'?

In political way, how does one define a 'country'? All this while, being a Malaysian, we r not allow to go to Israel, as it is not recognize as a country. I just found out that we cannot post any mail to that country through the local post office, as it is not listed under the list of countries. Even using the courier services such as DHL & etc, is troublesome too. What is it about this country that makes it stand out than the rest of the countries. Basically, Malaysian can go to anywhere in the world, except Israel - it is stated in the passport. On the other hand, I read on this forum where someone stated that we can go to Israel only for religion purpose, this refers to non-Muslims. But many procedures need to be taken in order to get the permission n the application needs to be apply through the church, apparently. Well, to be honest, I do not much about this issue. All I noe is that Malaysians r not allow to go to Israel. Besides Malaysia, are there any other countries that is the same? Any suggestions? Tis is pretty interesting Israel not being recognized as a country. Anyone care to share some information and shed some lights to it?




One of Malaysia's beach - place: unknown (get it off the internet)