Unprecedented surge in aliyah: 29,000 Jews immigrate to Israel amid Gaza war and global antisemitism

Over 29,000 new immigrants have arrived in Israel since the Oct. 7 Hamas invasion and massacre, according to a recent report from the World Zionist Organization (WZO) in Tel Aviv.

The surge in aliyah (immigration to Israel), despite Israel's war against the Hamas terror organization in Gaza in the south and the conflict with Hezbollah terror attacks in the north, comes amid rising antisemitism worldwide.

The report indicated a 355% increase in immigration from France alone, with over 5,500 files opened since the war began last October, compared to just 1,200 during the same period in 2023.

In the United States, the number of open immigration files rose by 62%, totaling over 6,000 people.

Canada also experienced an 87% increase, with over 800 Jews initiating a move to Israel.

Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization, welcomed over 150 additional new French olim (immigrants) at Ben-Gurion International Airport on Tuesday during this remarkable wave of aliyah.

Hagoel highlighted the new immigrants' strong determination and deep love for Israel.

“It is incredible that since the massacre of October 7, Israel has seen a dramatic increase in olim. The arrival of over 29,000 new olim during this time of crisis demonstrates that the Jewish people are determined to continue building their future in our homeland, the land of Israel. This unprecedented aliyah is a testament to the recognition of the global Jewish community that Israel is not just a refuge, but a beacon of hope and faith.”

Hagoel noted that global antisemitism has caused Jews to feel unsafe everywhere.

"On October 7, a war erupted not against the state of Israel, but against the Jewish people. Today, in many countries around the world, it is hard to be a Jew, whether at school, at work, or at prayer,” he said.

"The war we face is not just a battle for Israel's security but for the survival and future of the Jewish people. The strong response we are witnessing through this wave of aliyah is a powerful affirmation of our collective resolve to stand with Israel, now more than ever."

Hagoel vowed: "We will make sure that Jews everywhere feel safe, supported, and encouraged to make aliyah.”