‘I don't recognise the country I grew up in anymore’: Some Israelis tempted by exile
An Israeli economist, Itai Ater, highlights a growing trend of Israeli graduates leaving the country, citing political instability and policies under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the main drivers. According to a study using government data, approximately 50,000 Israeli graduates have emigrated annually since 2023, with many being young professionals like doctors and engineers. Ater attributes this 'brain drain' to factors including the judicial reforms initiated by Netanyahu's government in early 2023, ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, mandatory military service, and perceived favoritism toward ultra-Orthodox communities. He warns that this exodus threatens Israel's economy, which relies heavily on skilled labor, and notes that international perceptions of Israel are worsening, leading to academic and professional repercussions.
"I don't recognise the country I grew up in anymore": Some Israelis tempted by exile Tel Aviv University is preparing for the new academic year, with students mingling with soldiers visiting the Museum of the Jewish People. Professor Itai Ater, an economist at the university's Coller School of Management, has openly opposed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. His research, published in February 2026, revealed that approximately 50,000 Israeli graduates have left the country annually since 2023. Ater attributes this exodus to political developments, particularly the judicial reforms initiated by Netanyahu in January 2023. He argues that the brain drain is not due to economic hardship or reduced investment in public services but stems from dissatisfaction with the political climate. Ater points to recent events, including the October 7 attacks, conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, mandatory military service for reservists, and increased financial support for ultra-Orthodox communities. These issues, combined with global perceptions of Israel, have led to academic boycotts and disrupted international research partnerships. Since 2023, 150,000 graduates have left the country. Ater warns that another right-wing victory in the upcoming October 27 elections could accelerate this trend. Tamar*, a 32-year-old product manager working in artificial intelligence, said she might leave Israel with her husband and young child if Netanyahu's coalition retains power. She cited ongoing wars, the influence of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and what she calls Netanyahu's dishonesty as reasons for her discontent. She described being unable to sleep due to the war and expressed anger at the government for exempting ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service. Despite her family's long history in Jerusalem, she feels disconnected from the current state of Israel. As the October 27 elections approach, many Israelis remain unsettled by the aftermath of the October 7 attacks. Political divisions continue to deepen, with some seeking escape from the turmoil.
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An Israeli economist, Itai Ater, highlights a growing trend of Israeli graduates leaving the country, citing political instability and policies under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the main drivers. According to a study using government data, approximately 50,000 Israeli graduates have emigrated annually since 2023, with many being young professionals like doctors and engineers. Ater attributes this 'brain drain' to factors including the judicial reforms initiated by Netanyahu's government in early 2023, ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, mandatory military service, and perceived favoritism toward ultra-Orthodox communities. He warns that this exodus threatens Israel's economy, which relies heavily on skilled labor, and notes that international perceptions of Israel are worsening, leading to academic and professional repercussions.
Bias read (Progressive): The article presents the perspective of a left-wing economist criticizing the Netanyahu government's policies, including judicial reforms, military conscription, and allocation of funds to ultra-Orthodox communities. The framing emphasizes the negative impact of these policies on Israeli society and
Since 2023, Israel has been experiencing an unprecedented brain drain, with many graduates considering leaving the country if the right-wing and far-right coalition led by Benjamin Netanyahu remains in power. As the October 27 elections approach, this exodus reflects growing concerns among Israeli citizens about the direction of the nation under potential continued leadership by Netanyahu’s bloc. The phenomenon highlights anxieties over political polarization, social cohesion, and future stability. Many Israelis express feelings of disillusionment, stating they no longer recognize the country they grew up in.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on the brain drain and political uncertainty in Israel ahead of the election. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The framing is neutral, focusing on the reported concerns of Israeli citizens without taking a clear
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