Over 20,000 Immigrants Arrive in Israel Amid Rising Western Interest

Israel welcomed over 20,000 new immigrants from approximately 100 countries during the past Hebrew year, תשפ"ו (September 2025 to September 2026), according to data released by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and the Jewish Agency. Despite a complex security situation, immigration continued, with a notable surge in interest from Western countries, including Australia, Britain, and France.

Approximately 35% of the new immigrants are young adults aged 18-35, and 24% are children and teenagers under 17. The immigrant population included 414 doctors who integrated into the Israeli healthcare system, alongside professionals in other needed fields. The age range of immigrants spanned from a two-week-old infant from Mexico to 102-year-old individuals from Russia and France.

The Global Aliyah Center in Jerusalem reported an unprecedented increase in aliyah applications, with over 28,000 opened, particularly from Western nations. This rise is attributed to the ongoing war, global political developments, and increasing antisemitism.

Tel Aviv was the leading absorption city with 2,762 new immigrants, followed by Netanya (2,224), Jerusalem (2,134), and Haifa (1,504). Other cities included Rehovot (1,042), Bat Yam (957), Ashdod (846), Beit Shemesh (680), Ashkelon (534), and Rishon LeZion (450). Notably, about 31% of immigrants chose to settle in peripheral areas, with 20% in the north and 11% in the south.

Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer stated that the trend of immigration from Western countries is expected to continue and strengthen, calling it a national opportunity. He emphasized that the high percentage of young immigrants reflects confidence in Israel. Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog described aliyah as a profound expression of love and trust in Israel's future and the Jewish people's ability to build the next chapter of the Zionist endeavor.