On Thursday, Israel welcomed a record number of new immigrants, with five Aliyah flights arriving from North America. This represents the highest daily intake of immigrants this year and the most significant weekly influx since October 7.
Over the course of August 22-28, more than 600 people are expected to arrive on 14 flights, facilitated by Nefesh B’Nefesh, the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, the Jewish Agency, Keren Kayemet Le’Israel, and the Jewish National Fund-US.
According to a joint statement, approximately 2,000 new immigrants are anticipated to come to Israel this summer. These new citizens will be arriving from various states in the U.S. and provinces in Canada, and will be settling throughout Israel.
Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer expressed his sentiments, stating, “We are witnessing a remarkable increase in aliyah despite the ongoing conflicts in the north and south. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the new immigrants arriving today and in the past week from North America, motivated by a strong desire to join the Zionist cause.”
Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Nefesh B’Nefesh, commented, “The arrival of hundreds of immigrants this summer, despite the current challenges, is a powerful sign of hope, optimism, solidarity, and faith.”
Immigration to Israel has surged despite the trauma of October 7, when a Hamas attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and 251 hostages being taken. This attack, followed by ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in the north, has led to the evacuation of thousands of Israelis.
The increase in immigration is partly attributed to rising antisemitism in North America and Europe.