Israel Welcomes 230 New French Immigrants in Summer 2026 Aliyah Operation

On Monday, 230 new immigrants from France arrived in Israel as part of the Summer 2026 Aliyah Operation, arriving on four flights coordinated by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. They were warmly received at Ben Gurion Airport by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer, and dozens of Bnei Akiva youth movement members who greeted them with singing and dancing. This latest arrival brings the total number of French immigrants to approximately 800 since the operation began.

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration expects thousands more immigrants from various countries to arrive throughout the summer, including many families preparing to settle in Israel ahead of the new school year. Since October 7, over 67,000 new immigrants have arrived in Israel from around the world. France remains a key source country, with more than 6,500 immigrants arriving since the outbreak of the war.

Data shows a significant rise in French immigration: 1,097 in 2023, doubling to 2,234 in 2024, and reaching 3,357 in 2025, marking over a 200% increase in two years. The upward trend continues in 2026, with about 800 immigrants arriving so far compared to roughly 690 during the same period last year.

Minister Smotrich expressed excitement and commitment to supporting the newcomers, stating that the Israeli government is providing a comprehensive absorption package to ensure a smooth transition. Minister Sofer highlighted the immigrants' contributions to Israel’s economy, healthcare, academia, and security, urging Israeli citizens to welcome and assist them in integrating successfully into their communities.