‘Power of Zionism’: Israel welcomes 140 new immigrants from France, including 80 children

A special "Families Flight" carrying 140 new immigrants from France landed in Israel, marking a significant influx of new residents, particularly children. The group, which included 80 infants, children, and teenagers, was welcomed at Ben-Gurion Airport with Israeli flags, music, and dancing by representatives from the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, The Jewish Agency, and the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ).

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It’s so moving to see young families choosing to make Aliyah to Israel, especially now. They are choosing to raise their children here, in the State of Israel, the home of the Jewish people.

This arrival underscores a sharp rise in immigration from France since October 7. In 2023, Israel welcomed 1,097 French immigrants. This number more than doubled to 2,234 in 2024 and is projected to reach 3,357 by the end of 2025. Officials emphasized the emotional significance of these new families choosing to make Israel their home, especially during the current security climate.

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Over the past few years, we have led a series of reforms designed to make the Aliyah and integration process smoother, including programs for students, the streamlining of professional licensing, housing solutions, and more.

Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer stated that the government has implemented reforms to streamline the immigration and integration process, offering programs for students, professional licensing, and housing solutions. He stressed that beyond these reforms, the "great Israeli spirit" is what truly supports newcomers. Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog, Chairman of The Jewish Agency, described Aliyah as the "growth engine of the State of Israel" and a powerful reminder of Zionism's enduring strength. He noted that each arriving family strengthens the nation, and the agency's mission is to ensure they feel at home from the moment they arrive.

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All of these are meant to help newcomers integrate quickly into Israeli society and the workforce. But above and beyond all the reforms and changes stands the great Israeli spirit, and that depends on all of us, on each and every one of us. Welcome to Israel.

Dr. Jürgen Bühler, president of ICEJ, expressed honor in supporting the new immigrants and highlighted that the increase in Aliyah from France is particularly encouraging given Israel's ongoing security challenges. The flight included unique stories, such as three sets of twins and an 85-year-old woman whose children already reside in Israel, illustrating the diverse motivations and backgrounds of those choosing to immigrate.

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Aliyah is the growth engine of the State of Israel.