Professor Arnon Sofer, Leading Israeli Demographer and Geostrategist, Dies at 90

Professor Arnon Sofer, a prominent Israeli demographer, geostrategist, and one of the founders of the University of Haifa, passed away at the age of 90. Over more than five decades, Sofer extensively studied demographic trends and their implications for Israel's future, influencing public discourse and national security policies. He completed his doctorate at the Hebrew University in 1971 and began teaching at the University of Haifa in 1965, where he served as head of the Geography Department, dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Mathematics, and chair of the Haikin Geostrategy Chair.

Sofer was known for his warnings about demographic changes in Israel and the surrounding region, particularly concerning the balance between Jewish and Arab populations. From the 1970s onward, he highlighted demographic shifts in the Galilee and later expanded his focus to Judea and Samaria, emphasizing their potential impact on Israel's identity as a Jewish state. He argued that maintaining a solid Jewish majority was crucial for Israel's security and political decision-making and cautioned against policies, including the annexation of Judea and Samaria, that could jeopardize this demographic balance.

Throughout his career, Sofer actively participated in public conferences, published numerous articles, and advised security officials. His research and strategic assessments were presented to Israeli prime ministers, ministers, and senior defense officials. The University of Haifa mourned his passing, describing him as a foundational figure and a leading Israeli scholar who never hesitated to voice his informed and responsible opinions, even when controversial.