This week, the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and the Jewish Agency, in collaboration with the Ofek Israeli organization, are hosting fairs in France in response to the growing demand for aliyah observed since the Hamas-perpetrated massacres on October 7 and the outbreak of the Iron Sword War.
The first fair was held today in Paris, Sunday, December 17, attracting hundreds of people. Two more fairs are scheduled to take place in Lyon and Marseille in the coming days.
On-site, visitors can access comprehensive information on various topics such as employment and vocational training opportunities, higher education institutions, and integrating children into the Israeli educational system.
According to data from the Jewish Agency and the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, since the surprise attack by Hamas and the outbreak of the Iron Sword War, the number of aliyah applications has increased by approximately 430%. These applications represent 1,200 individuals, compared to 220 last year during the same period. Additionally, about 1,300 families have attended information evenings organized by the Jewish Agency across France.
The Jewish community in France, the third-largest in the world (after Israel and the United States), consists of approximately 450,000 individuals. It is a traditionalist and Zionist community, maintaining strong ties with the State of Israel, particularly through relatives established in the country. The growing interest in aliyah since October 7 not only stems from the rise of antisemitism in France but mainly from a desire to express solidarity with Israel.
The Minister of Aliyah and Integration, Ofir Sofer, stated, “I was very pleased to meet future olim who decided to immigrate to Israel immediately after October 7, while the country is at war. The impact of the images has been decisive for many. Their main motivation for immigrating lies in their feelings of solidarity and identification with Israel. Jewish communities worldwide, particularly in France, are facing a significant increase in antisemitic acts. We stand with them and will further contribute to the integration of new olim. The State of Israel remains the homeland of the Jewish people.”
The president of the Jewish Agency, Doron Almog, remarked, “In these difficult days, French Jews continue to express their unconditional love for the State of Israel. It is our right and duty to welcome the olim with open arms and support them in realizing their dream of settling in Israel. Aliyah is the cornerstone of the country’s growth and restoration.”
