Israelis immigrate abroad to find quiet away from constant war and political uncertainty

A Tel Aviv University study shows Israeli emigration at record levels, with 40,000-50,000 citizens leaving for at least a year in each of the past three years, a trend that began amid 2023 political upheaval and continued through wars following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. The study warns of a 'dangerous' brain drain, as emigrants' incomes were about 50% higher than the national average. Meanwhile, over 22,500 new immigrants arrived in 2025, with French aliyah tripling and North American immigration rising. The article profiles Israelis who left or plan to leave, including a couple who moved to Italy, a content creator moving to Greece, and a man considering Prague, citing political and security concerns.

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that Israeli emigration has remained at record levels, with an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 citizens leaving for at least a year in each of the past three years. This trend began amid the political upheaval of 2023 and continued through the wars that followed the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack. The study's authors say the numbers do not yet pose a significant economic or security risk, but warn of a 'dangerous' increase in brain drain, as emigrants' incomes were about 50% higher than the national average, with doctors and engineers disproportionately represented. The article profiles several Israelis who have left or plan to leave. Iris Meiri-Snir and Hagai Agmon-Snir moved to Arona, Italy, citing a 'fascist current' in Israel. Anna Lukatsky, a Jaffa-based content creator, is moving to Paros, Greece, for seven months. Ishai, originally from San Francisco, is exploring a move to Prague, citing cost of living and 'endless and pointless wars.' Meanwhile, immigration to Israel continues, with over 22,500 new immigrants arriving in 2025, including about 8,500 from Western countries. French aliyah more than tripled between 2023 and 2025, and North American immigration also increased. More than 2,300 North American Jews were planning to move to Israel this summer, according to Nefesh B'Nefesh.