The earliest inhabitants of the region were the Canaanites.
Excavations in various parts of Israel and Palestine have uncovered remains of Canaanite cities, artifacts, and temples dating back to before the arrival of the Israelites. Notable sites include Jericho, Hazor, and Megiddo. Jericho is the oldest continuous living in the city in the world, it's UNESCO site, Palestinians are direct descendants of Canaanites.
Modern genetic research has shown that the ancient Canaanites are genetically related to the current populations in Lebanon and parts of Israel/Palestine. This suggests a continuity of population in the region.
The Hebrew Bible itself acknowledges the presence of other peoples in the land of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. The Canaanites, Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites are mentioned as the original inhabitants of the land.
