Diaspora Jews choose to move their lives to Israel despite an extremely challenging security reality, with 20,000 new olim from over 100 countries expected to celebrate the Jewish new year as Israeli citizens for the first time.
Yael and Daniel Loren made aliyah from Florida to Zikhron Yaakov this summer with their three children. Ahead of their first High Holy Days as residents, they speak about the challenges of settling in, the support they have received from the community and their message to those still considering aliyah: “There’s never a perfect time. You just have to take the step”
Mordy (86) and Carole Pancer (82) made Aliyah from Maryland this week after decades in the United States, reuniting with their two daughters and their families. Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Nefesh B’Nefesh, which assisted with their Aliyah: “A story of Zionism spanning generations and borders.”
The State of Israel has officially entered an especially charged election period, and while voters rack their brains, a group of new immigrants feels left behind.
New Tel Aviv University study finds more than 90,000 Israeli citizens left the country for an extended period in 2025. Researchers say there is no immediate economic threat but warn: “Looking ahead, there is growing concern that emigration could endanger Israel’s security and economy.”
Some 6,000 new olim are expected to arrive to Israel this summer, and OU Israel is preparing to help children and teens build social connections ahead of the start of the school year through Camp Dror. Eyal Tannenbaum, who began as a camper and is returning to the camp as a counselor, speaks about the importance of creating friendships for young olim that last throughout their lives, even after camp.
New National Insurance data reveals that new olim account for the majority of Israelis who terminate their residency – sparking urgent calls for a sweeping overhaul of the country's absorption system.
Most of the new Olim are from France and the US, but many still do not have plane tickets due to cancellations and limited availability. The state is preparing for accelerated absorption: “Aliyah continues even in the most complex periods.”
Democratic primary victories by candidates with anti-Israel views are raising fears in the US Jewish community and questions about deeper trends in American politics.
Nadav, a lone combat soldier, says his greatest challenge isn't combat in Gaza, but the loneliness and search for community off the base. OU Israel's new mentorship program aims to change that, offering English-speaking immigrant soldiers a social, Torah, and community framework during their service.
