French Jews are Moving to Israel in Higher Numbers

“What we are witnessing, in my opinion, is a whole shift in history. Now we’re seeing waves from Western Europe, which we never thought we’d see—France, Belgium and I predict it’s going to be others.” – Rabbi Eckstein

A recent article in Newsweek explores the increasing numbers of French Jews making aliyah (immigrating to Israel). Rabbi Eckstein also shares his insights and The Fellowship’s role in helping the French Jewish community move to their spiritual homeland.

According to Israeli government figures, 7,469 French immigrants made aliyah (moved to Israel) in 2015. A decade ago, the number was 2,948. For the past two years, the French have been the largest immigrant group arriving in Israel, overtaking Russians and Ukrainians.

“What we are witnessing, in my opinion, is a whole shift in history,” says Rabbi Eckstein. Previously, Jews emigrated from Eastern Europe, North Africa and elsewhere in the Middle East, he says. “Now we’re seeing waves from Western Europe, which we never thought we’d see—France, Belgium and I predict it’s going to be others.”

What’s driving the increased numbers of Jews escaping to freedom in the Holy Land? Media reports about recent Anti-Semitic attacks have left Jews afraid for their lives. As reported by Newsweek:

The Jewish Community Security Service, a not-for-profit, says there were 808 reported anti-Semitic incidents in France in 2015, nearly twice the number reported just two years earlier. In January, the nonprofit Human Rights First said, “An increasing number of Jews are relocating in or outside of France for security reasons.”

When you support The Fellowship’s On Wings of Eagles ministry, your gift helps fulfill biblical prophecy, as foretold in the book of Isaiah: “I will beckon to the Gentiles … they will bring your sons in their arms and carry your daughters on their shoulders” (Isaiah 49:22).

Let’s bring more endangered Jews home. Please prayerfully consider how you can help with a Freedom Flight today.

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“What we are witnessing, in my opinion, is a whole shift in history. Now we’re seeing waves from Western Europe, which we never thought we’d see—France, Belgium and I predict it’s going to be others.” – Rabbi Eckstein