What it is about:
In a bold demonstration of resilience against Iranian threats, a special aliyah flight facilitated by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews touched down in Israel, bringing over 150 French Jews to their new homeland.
Why it matters:
This significant immigration movement underscores the unwavering commitment of Jews worldwide to their ancestral homeland, despite the looming threats and challenges posed by geopolitical tensions. It also highlights Israel’s supportive role in providing a safe haven for Jews facing persecution.
Immigration Amidst Challenges
Despite major airlines like Lufthansa halting flights to Israel due to concerns over possible Iranian retaliation, the elated French olim defied these challenges and arrived undeterred in their new home. Their emotional journey included increased security at Charles De Gaulle airport but culminated in a joyous celebration on their El Al flight.
Families Driven by Hope and Aspirations
Among the new immigrants were families like the Glicks and Maimons. The Glick family opted to move to Israel citing normalized antisemitism in France and the promise of a brighter future for their children in Israel. Despite the security threats, they showed immense trust in Israel’s protective capabilities.
Conversely, the Maimon family were motivated by a long-held Zionist dream. After decades of financial obstacles, they are finally realizing their aspiration to live in Israel, joining their older children, including a former IDF soldier.
A Warm Welcome
The olim received guidance and support during the flight to complete all necessary paperwork, and the palpable excitement erupted into chants of “Mazel tov!” and “Am Yisrael chai!” Upon landing, a celebratory atmosphere greeted them with music, songs, and the blast of a symbolic shofar.
Leadership’s Encouragement
Aliyah Minister Ofir Sofer, World Zionist Organization chair Yaakov Hagoel, and IFCJ CEO Ayelet Shilo Tamir greeted the newcomers. IFCJ chairman Bishop Paul Lanier drew a parallel to ancient pilgrims and expressed profound gratitude.
Sofer emphasized the collective duty to welcome new citizens warmly and securely, predicting that many more olim will follow. Hagoel lauded the French Jews as heroes, inspiring anticipation of an increase in such warm receptions.
Growing Immigration Statistics
The latest group raises the number of French Jews making aliyah post-Israel-Hamas war to over 1000. The Jewish Agency and Aliyah Ministry report a surge in applications – over 7,000 applications in 2024, vastly outpacing the previous year’s 1,200. Since the conflict began on October 7, a global total of 24,000 individuals have immigrated to Israel.
The new arrivals have settled across Israel in cities such as Netanya, Raanana, Hadera, Givat Shmuel, and Ashdod, marking the beginning of their new chapter.
This story was first published on jpost.com.