World's Jewish Population to Shift to Israel Within Five Years, Leader Predicts

Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization, predicted that within five years, the majority of the world's Jewish population will reside in Israel. Currently, out of 15.8 million Jews worldwide, 7.2 million live in Israel, according to Central Bureau of Statistics data. Hagoel cited Israel's high birth rates among Western countries and ongoing immigration as key factors for this projected demographic shift, noting that such a concentration of Jews in Israel hasn't occurred in 2,000 years.

Speaking at the Global Aliyah Live Summit, Hagoel addressed the impact of global criticism of Israel on Jewish communities abroad. He argued that individuals fearful of expressing their Jewish identity risk their grandchildren not identifying as Jewish. He sees this as an opportunity to strengthen Jewish identity among these populations, suggesting that while some may drift away, others are drawn closer, creating a "reverse effect." The World Zionist Organization aims to reach these individuals through various programs, emphasizing unity.

Hagoel described aliyah, or immigration to Israel, as a process that requires a strong sense of Jewish identity and connection to Israel, not just a reaction to antisemitic events. He highlighted the organization's efforts to bolster Jewish education in the diaspora through 280 emissary teachers serving two to three-year terms and engagement with global youth and student movements.

He acknowledged that aliyah is a significant personal decision involving leaving one's environment and livelihood, contrasting it with an Israeli perception of it being easy. Hagoel stressed the need for the Israeli government to improve immigrant absorption processes, calling aliyah a national project requiring the embrace of all Israelis. He urged Israeli society to actively welcome new immigrants, offering practical support and understanding during their difficult transition, drawing a parallel to the experiences of past generations of immigrants.