Immigration Minister Sees Rise From West, Cites Global Instability

Israel's Minister of Aliyah and Integration, Ofir Sofer, stated that there has been a significant increase in immigration from Western countries, including France, Britain, and others, attributing this trend to global instability. Speaking at the Global Aliyah Live Summit hosted by ynet Global, Sofer noted that over 20,000 new immigrants arrived in Israel during the Hebrew year 5786 (2025-2026), alongside a rise in Israelis leaving the country. He expressed confidence that this immigration trend would continue and that his ministry was prepared for the expected growth.

Sofer acknowledged that the October 7th Hamas attack is a contributing factor to immigration but emphasized that the primary motivation for many is the desire to be part of building Israel, the homeland of the Jewish people. He recalled a young French woman who decided to immigrate following the events of October 7th, even though she was not previously involved in Zionist youth movements.

The minister also addressed the issue of doctors leaving Israel, stating his regret but highlighting his ministry's focus on encouraging doctors to immigrate. He noted a rise in the immigration of physicians in the past two years and expressed hope for its continuation, mentioning efforts to attract medical faculty and specialists.

When asked about Israel's safety, Sofer described it as challenging but pointed to the military's successes against Hamas and Hezbollah. He shared an anecdote about new immigrants immediately heading to the northern border to serve, which he found inspiring. Sofer also detailed reforms aimed at reducing bureaucracy and improving the integration process for new immigrants, including enhanced support systems for education and community integration.

Data for 5786 shows 5,685 immigrants from Russia, 4,364 from France, 3,333 from the United States, and 975 from Britain. The total number of immigrants in 5786 was slightly lower than the approximately 25,000 who arrived in 5785, but there was a notable increase in immigration applications opened in Western countries. The report also mentioned the arrival of 414 doctors and other skilled professionals during the year, alongside programs designed to integrate immigrants into the Israeli workforce.