Over 90,000 Israelis Emigrate in 2025 Citing Security, Economic, and Social Concerns

A recent study by Tel Aviv University revealed that over 90,000 Israelis left the country in 2025 for at least three months, continuing a rising trend of emigration. The research highlights key reasons for this exodus, including security fears, high living costs, social discrimination, and a desire to provide children with a safer future.

Among those who emigrated is Anna Sichaks, who moved to Portugal in March 2025 with her partner and two daughters. She recounted experiences of homophobic harassment and violence in Israel, including an incident where a neighbor set fire to their pride flag, which authorities failed to address. The trauma was compounded by the events of October 7, which intensified fear, hatred, and social division. Anna emphasized that their move was a deliberate choice to emigrate, not a temporary relocation, and expressed hope that her children will fully integrate into Portuguese society.

Sharon Diner and Hadar Tzur also recently emigrated to the Czech Republic, citing the ongoing security situation, economic pressures, and the desire for a better quality of life. Sharon noted the benefits of smaller class sizes and better public services in Prague, while Hadar highlighted the relief of living without constant fear of attacks. Both acknowledged challenges such as language barriers, homesickness, and distance from family but remain committed to their new lives abroad.

The Tel Aviv University study showed that 90,922 Israelis left in 2025, slightly fewer than in 2024 but more than in 2023. Over the past three years, approximately 268,000 Israelis have emigrated for extended periods. The emigrants interviewed expressed no regrets about their decisions and criticized Israel’s failure to support citizens abroad, including voting rights in embassies. They described their new environments as safer, more supportive, and offering a higher quality of life than what they experienced in Israel.