Direktor Židovske agencije: Dok je Izrael u ratu, alija je najveći čin hrabrosti - mišljenje

In a recent statement, Doron Almog, CEO of the Jewish Agency for Israel, emphasized that during wartime, the decision to make aliyah, immigrate to Israel, is the most courageous act a person can undertake. Speaking from his experience accompanying 34 families, including 80 children, on a flight from Paris to Israel, Almog described the journey as one of profound significance. Among the passengers were 11 newborns taking their first steps into the world, while others began fresh chapters of their lives in the Jewish state. Almog noted that over the past several months, more than 6,500 individuals have made the journey from France to Israel since October 7, marking a notable increase in immigration numbers. Despite the ongoing conflict and heightened security concerns, these individuals chose to uproot their lives and settle in Israel. For many, this decision was not just a personal choice but a deeply rooted commitment to the Jewish people and the land of Israel. The decision to make aliyah often appears counterintuitive, especially during periods of instability. Yet, for those who opt to relocate, it is driven by a sense of purpose and belonging that transcends immediate circumstances. Almog highlighted that such individuals are guided by a stronger, more enduring connection to Israel, a force that compels them to embrace the uncertainties of a new life in a country facing multiple challenges. As the group boarded the plane, Almog observed the emotional resonance of the occasion. He described how the passengers, ranging from young children to adults, carried with them a mixture of anticipation and hope. Their presence on the flight underscored the deep ties that bind Jews to Israel, regardless of where they had previously lived. Upon landing, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. As the plane touched down on Israeli soil, the passengers were met with a wave of emotions, tears of joy and relief, and a renewed sense of identity. Almog noted that this moment symbolized more than just a physical arrival; it represented the realization of a long-held dream and the fulfillment of a historical vision. Immigration to Israel, known as aliyah, has historically played a crucial role in the nation's development. Each new immigrant contributes not only to personal transformation but also to the collective strength of Israeli society. Almog stressed that these newcomers bring with them energy, ideas, and resilience, which are essential for continued growth and community-building. He pointed out that the current wave of aliyah is particularly vital given the present challenges faced by Israel. The influx of new residents helps reinforce the foundations of the state, supporting efforts to develop regions such as the Negev and the Galilee. These areas, often overlooked, benefit immensely from the contributions of immigrants who are willing to invest in their future and that of the broader Jewish community. Almog concluded that the strength of Israel is not solely measured by military achievements but by its capacity to rebuild, innovate, and believe in its potential. The ongoing waves of aliyah serve as a testament to this enduring belief. Watching the newly arrived immigrants step off the plane, filled with faith and affection for their new homeland, Almog saw a clear reflection of Israel's unyielding spirit and its promise for the future.