Jewish Agency CEO: While Israel is at war, making aliyah is the greatest act of courage - opinion

Amidst Israel's ongoing security challenges and internal tensions, acts of immigration, known as aliyah, are being framed as profound expressions of hope and extraordinary courage. Doron Almog, CEO of the Jewish Agency, recently accompanied 34 families, including 80 children, from France to Israel, underscoring the significance of this decision.

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Every act of aliyah is an act of hope. During times of war and uncertainty, it is also an act of extraordinary courage.

Almog described the journey, which involved 11 infants among the passengers, as a new beginning for all involved. Since October 7, Israel has seen over 6,500 individuals immigrate from France alone. This influx represents a choice to leave behind established lives, careers, and familiar surroundings to start anew in Israel, a move Almog characterizes as "almost irrational" given the current circumstances.

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This move seems almost irrational. At a time when Israel is confronting so many fronts, security challenges, and tensions from within and beyond its borders, there are people who choose to leave behind the lives they have built and begin again, specifically in Israel.

He posits that Jews choosing to bind their destiny to Israel are guided by a deep-seated conviction, a "compass" stronger than the prevailing uncertainties. Almog emphasizes that Israel should not be taken for granted, whether by those born there or those who long for it from afar. The act of aliyah, he suggests, requires a significant sacrifice, including leaving behind language, careers, family, and the security of the familiar.

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Jews who have chosen to bind their destiny to that of the Israeli people are driven by something stronger, deeper, that serves as a compass.

Witnessing the immigrants' emotions upon arrival, Almog noted the "sparkle in their eyes" and the "songs and joy that fill the cabin," which he believes reveals the essence of Israelis and their aspirations. He describes courage not just as a grand gesture, but as parents holding their children, believing their future can only be built in Israel despite its difficulties. The arrival of new immigrants, or olim, is seen as injecting vital strength into Israeli society, fostering its capacity to build, create, and establish communities, thereby fulfilling an "ancient vision."

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Aliyah has always been, and will always remain, the greatest engine of growth for the State of Israel. Every new oleh who arrives brings not only a personal story but also new strength to Israeli society.