After five years: Israel returns to top tier in fight against human trafficking

Israel has returned to Tier 1 of the U.S. State Department's annual report on combating human trafficking, after five years in Tier 2. The report, published on October 8, 2026, covering activities in 2025, determined that Israel fully meets international standards. Achievements include a doubling of investigations, expanded legal aid for victims led by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, and increased enforcement.

Israel has returned to Tier 1 of the U.S. State Department's annual report on combating human trafficking, after five years in which it was ranked in the second tier. The report, published on October 8, 2026, covering activities during 2025, determined that Israel fully meets the standards for eradicating the phenomenon. Progress was noted in three main areas: enforcement, victim protection, and prevention. Among the achievements cited: a doubling of investigations, an increase in penalties, the establishment of procedures for victim identification, expanded treatment and rehabilitation services, an increase in the number of labor and enforcement inspectors, and the establishment of dedicated police units. Also noted was legislation advanced by Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Yariv Levin, which expanded the right to legal aid for victims. The Ministry of Justice welcomed the renewed recognition. The article quotes Levin and the ministry's Director General Itamar Donenfeld, and details collaborations between government ministries and public bodies.