What it is about
Five Aliyah flights landed at Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday, marking the highest single-day arrival of new immigrants (olim) to Israel this year. Thursday’s arrivals are part of an expected influx of over 600 olim on 14 flights within the week ending August 28, facilitated by Nefesh B’Nefesh, the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, the Jewish Agency, Keren Kayemet Le’Israel, and the Jewish National Fund-US.
Why it matters
This significant increase in Aliyah reflects the enduring strength and appeal of the Zionist narrative. Despite ongoing regional tensions, these arrivals represent a testament to Jewish resilience and faith, symbolizing unity and renewal in the face of adversity. The arrival of approximately 2,000 new immigrants this summer underscores the unbreakable bond between Jews around the world and the State of Israel.
What they’re saying
“We are in the midst of a blessed month, witnessing an impressive increase in aliyah from around the world, despite this complex period of conflict in the north and south. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the new olim who arrived today and over the last week from North America, driven by a strong desire to become an integral part of the Zionist story,” said Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer.
Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Nefesh B’Nefesh, remarked, “As we witness and celebrate the hundreds of olim arriving on flight after flight this summer, undeterred by the current situation, we see the exquisite expression of hope, optimism, solidarity and faith.”
Context
The sharp increase in immigration comes in the aftermath of the October 7 attack by Hamas terrorists, which caused significant turmoil in southern Israel and sparked a conflict affecting both the northern and southern borders of the country. Amid these adversities, the steadfast drive to make aliyah is bolstered by rising antisemitism in North America and Europe, prompting Jewish communities to seek refuge and a sense of belonging in Israel.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.