Israeli Police Report 20% Drop in Vehicle Thefts in First Half of 2026
A new report from the Israeli Police reveals a significant 20% decrease in vehicle thefts during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This marks the third consecutive year of decline, following a 19% reduction in 2025 compared to 2024. According to official data compiled by the National Unit for Vehicle Theft (Etgar), 6,317 vehicles were stolen nationwide in the first six months of 2026, down from 7,929 in the first half of 2025.
The police highlight that this drop in thefts is occurring despite a continuous increase in the number of vehicles on Israeli roads, which has grown by approximately 1.25 million over the past decade. The current rate of decline brings theft levels close to the lows recorded during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when movement restrictions limited the operations of theft rings.
Historically, vehicle thefts peaked in 2005 with 37,524 stolen vehicles, a figure more than three times higher than the current annualized rate. The ongoing reduction reflects improved law enforcement efforts and changing conditions affecting criminal activity in Israel.
