Tens of Thousands of Israelis Abroad Plan to Return for 2026 Elections

An estimated 53,000 Israelis living abroad are expected to return to Israel to vote in the 2026 elections, according to the Fly&Vote initiative. This program, run by AID Coalition, assists citizens wishing to come back for the vote. The Likud party had filed a legal challenge against Fly&Vote, alleging the initiative offered an unfair advantage that could influence voters. However, the party withdrew its petition on Tuesday following a hearing before the President of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Sohlberg. Organizers of Fly&Vote denied the accusations, stating they provide no financial aid and that the program involves only 500 to 600 travelers who pay full fare for their tickets without subsidies. Following the judge's recommendation, the Likud agreed to drop the case. The agreement stipulates that tickets for already planned flights will remain at airline-set prices, and the initiative will not market additional flights. Fly&Vote will pay 10,000 shekels in legal costs. The initiative's estimates are based on a survey of approximately 17,500 Israelis living abroad, where 72% expressed a desire to return to vote and 58% had already booked travel. This indicates a growing mobilization, as only 45% of respondents in March said they would do everything possible to return. The primary obstacle for voters remains ticket prices, cited by 58%, followed by flight availability and the security situation. Fly&Vote will continue its informational activities, including WhatsApp groups, a commercial flight search engine, and legal assistance. Volunteers will be present at Ben-Gurion Airport to greet travelers but will not offer financial benefits or conduct election campaigning. The organization has committed to not subsidizing tickets, providing transportation, or coordinating accommodation.