Making Aliyah in Israel’s Climate of War: An In-Depth Guide
Making Aliyah (immigrating to Israel) is a significant and emotional journey for Jews worldwide, but it can come with unique challenges when undertaken during times of war or heightened security tensions. While many people feel drawn to Israel for cultural, religious, or personal reasons, moving to the country during a period of conflict requires extra planning, preparedness, and resilience.
This guide offers a detailed overview of the key considerations and support systems available for olim (new immigrants) making Aliyah during a climate of war, helping you make informed decisions and manage expectations as you transition to life in Israel.
1. Israel’s Security Infrastructure: A Well-Prepared Nation
Israel has developed one of the world’s most advanced security infrastructures due to its long-standing geopolitical situation. Even during times of war or military conflict, the country remains highly prepared to protect civilians. Here's an overview of the key security measures that ensure your safety during turbulent times:
The Iron Dome Missile Defense System
The Iron Dome is a mobile air defense system designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells fired from distances of 4 to 70 kilometers. It has been highly effective at defending populated areas, especially in the south near Gaza and the north near Lebanon.
The system has an incredibly high interception success rate, estimated at over 90%, and it plays a crucial role in minimizing casualties and damage from rocket attacks.
Reinforced Safe Rooms (Mamads) and Bomb Shelters
Newer homes in Israel are required by law to include a Mamad, a fortified room built to withstand rocket and missile attacks. Older homes typically have access to public bomb shelters, often located in neighborhoods or community centers.
Each region of Israel is mapped for different alert times, meaning that depending on your location, you have anywhere from 15 seconds to 2 minutes to seek shelter after an air raid siren sounds. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the alert time and the nearest shelter locations when you arrive.
Home Front Command and Emergency Alerts
Israel's Home Front Command plays a critical role in guiding civilians during emergencies. They provide real-time alerts via air raid sirens and smartphone apps (such as "Red Alert"), which tell citizens how long they have to reach shelter and what to do during missile attacks.
Their website and app also offer instructions for other potential threats, such as chemical attacks or evacuations, ensuring civilians are well-prepared.
2. Financial and Logistical Support for Olim During Conflict
Making Aliyah in times of war means that olim are supported by a robust network of government programs and Jewish organizations, ensuring that you are not left to navigate challenges alone. These institutions provide essential financial and logistical support, helping to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Financial Assistance: The Sal Klita (Absorption Basket)
Nefesh B'Nefesh, The Jewish Agency, and the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offer a range of financial aid to help new immigrants. The Sal Klita is a key benefit that provides you with financial assistance for your first 6 to 12 months in Israel. This funding can be used to cover living expenses, including rent, food, and utilities.
Additional grants and subsidies are available for those settling in development towns or less populated areas, which are often safer and farther from conflict zones.
Housing Assistance and Relocation Support
The government and local municipalities provide rental subsidies for new olim, which are especially helpful if you need to relocate from high-conflict areas to safer cities. Many olim opt to live in central Israel (such as Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, or Herzliya) or in northern cities like Haifa, which tend to experience less conflict compared to border areas.
Some olim are placed in absorption centers (Merkaz Klita), where they receive temporary housing and social services, including Ulpan (Hebrew language courses), job search support, and assistance with integration.
Health and Medical Support
Upon arrival, new immigrants are immediately enrolled in one of Israel’s four national health insurance funds(Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, Leumit). These funds ensure access to healthcare, including mental health services, which can be crucial for coping with the stress of immigrating during a time of conflict.
Israel’s healthcare system is robust and operates continuously, even during times of military conflict, ensuring that both emergency and routine care are available.
Education and Schooling for Children
Schools across Israel are equipped with bomb shelters or safe rooms, and teachers receive special training to ensure students’ safety during air raids or emergencies. In conflict-prone areas, schools conduct safety drillsregularly to help students understand how to respond calmly and efficiently during security alerts.
Many schools and municipalities provide psychological services to help children cope with the anxiety or trauma associated with living in a conflict zone.
3. Choosing the Right Location: Where to Live During Conflict
One of the most important considerations when making Aliyah during times of war is where to settle. Certain regions of Israel are more prone to conflict due to their proximity to hostile borders, while others are safer and less likely to experience rocket fire or military action.
High-Risk Areas
Southern Israel (Near Gaza): Cities such as Sderot, Ashkelon, Ashdod, and the smaller towns near the Gaza border are often targeted by rockets and face regular air raid alerts. While the Iron Dome helps protect these areas, life in southern Israel can be disrupted more frequently by conflict.
Northern Israel (Near Lebanon and Syria): Northern areas, especially those close to the borders with Lebanon and Syria, such as Kiryat Shmona or Metula, are vulnerable to missile attacks by Hezbollah. However, conflict here is typically less frequent than in the south.
Lower-Risk Areas
Central Israel: Tel Aviv, Herzliya, and Ra'anana are popular among olim because of their more central location and vibrant Anglo communities. These areas are safer during conflicts, with fewer disruptions and longer alert times in the event of air raid sirens.
Jerusalem: While Jerusalem is occasionally affected by security incidents, it remains a major destination for immigrants. The city has excellent resources for olim and is home to a large, supportive immigrant community.
Haifa and Northern Coastal Cities: Coastal cities like Haifa, Netanya, and Acre are generally safer, though Haifa experienced missile attacks in past conflicts. Despite occasional incidents, life in these cities is more stable compared to areas near the Gaza or Lebanon borders.
4. Aliyah During Conflict: Military Service Considerations
Israel’s Defense Service Law mandates that certain new immigrants may be required to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Whether or not you are required to serve depends on your age, family status, and gender:
Men under 28 and unmarried women under 24 are generally required to enlist in the IDF. However, service requirements for new immigrants are often shorter than for native Israelis. Additionally, certain olim may qualify for non-combat roles or special programs such as Mahal, a volunteer program for immigrants wanting to serve in the IDF.
Exemptions: Those over the age threshold or with family obligations (e.g., married with children) are typically exempt from military service.
Making Aliyah during conflict may mean that those who choose to enlist in the IDF will be involved in more active security duties, which should be a factor when considering your move.
5. Psychological and Emotional Resilience
Moving to a new country is already a significant life change, but doing so during a period of conflict can add emotional stress and uncertainty. Israel has an extensive support system in place to help olim cope with these challenges.
Mental Health Resources
Israel’s healthcare system includes mental health services accessible through all of the major health funds. These services are often subsidized, ensuring that olim can access therapy or counseling when needed.
Several organizations, including NATAL (Israel Trauma Center for Victims of Terror and War), offer psychological services in English and other languages. These services are designed to help individuals and families manage the anxiety and trauma associated with war.
Community Support and Social Networks
Building a strong support system is essential for coping with the emotional aspects of living in Israel during conflict. Many olim find comfort in connecting with other immigrants who have been through similar experiences.
Community centers, synagogues, and local councils often organize social events and support groups, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. Many neighborhoods have WhatsApp groups or other community networks that help coordinate during emergencies, ensuring that residents are updated on local safety measures and available resources.
6. Bureaucracy and Aliyah Process During Conflict
Despite the ongoing conflict, Israel’s government and Jewish organizations remain committed to helping Jews from around the world make Aliyah. However, some administrative processes may experience delays during times of war.
Faster Aliyah Processes
During times of conflict, agencies like Nefesh B’Nefesh and The Jewish Agency often work to expedite the Aliyah process, ensuring that new immigrants can arrive safely and receive immediate support.
Special Aliyah flights may be organized to help olim arrive quickly and safely, particularly from regions facing anti-Semitic threats or instability abroad.
ID Cards and Health Registration
New immigrants are required to obtain a Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card), register for health insurance, and apply for benefits such as the Sal Klita. These processes remain operational even during times of conflict, although government offices may have adjusted hours or limited services in certain areas.
7. Preparing Your Family for Aliyah During Conflict
For families, making Aliyah during conflict requires additional preparation, particularly if you have children. Key considerations include ensuring your children’s emotional well-being and preparing them for life in Israel’s unique security environment.
School Preparedness
Israeli schools are equipped with safe rooms or bomb shelters, and school staff are trained to handle emergencies. Teachers also receive training in how to comfort and reassure children during stressful events like air raid sirens.
In many schools, particularly in high-risk areas, psychological counselors are on staff to help children process the emotional impact of living in a conflict zone.
Mental Health Support for Children
Israeli health services provide counseling and therapy for children, and many schools offer in-house support during times of conflict. Organizations like ELEM and NATAL also provide specialized psychological services for children dealing with war-related trauma.
8. Media, Perception, and Communication with Family Abroad
Making Aliyah during a conflict may prompt concern from family and friends living abroad, as international media often focuses heavily on the conflict without showing the full context of daily life in Israel.
Communication is Key: It’s important to maintain regular communication with your loved ones abroad, keeping them informed of your safety and experiences. You can also rely on local Israeli news outlets for more accurate and nuanced reporting about the security situation.
Global Perception vs. Reality: While media coverage may portray Israel as constantly under attack, the reality is that daily life often continues with minimal interruptions in many areas. Staying connected to trusted sources and avoiding sensationalized news will help you maintain a balanced view of the situation.
Conclusion: A Life of Purpose and Community Amid Challenges
Making Aliyah in times of war or conflict may feel daunting, but Israel’s comprehensive safety measures, strong community networks, and robust support systems for new immigrants make it possible to build a fulfilling and secure life in the country. Many Jews have made Aliyah during difficult times and have found not only safety but a deep sense of belonging and purpose in contributing to Israel’s thriving society.
While challenges exist, especially during periods of conflict, Israel's resilience and preparedness allow olim to successfully integrate and lead productive, meaningful lives. By understanding the realities of Aliyah in such times and taking advantage of the support available, you can make informed decisions and create a strong foundation for your new life in Israel.