Israeli Emigration to Canada Surges Amid Escalating Conflict in Gaza and Lebanon
The number of Israelis relocating to Canada has spiked significantly this year, coinciding with ongoing military aggression in Gaza and Lebanon, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports.
In 2024, nearly 10,000 settlers moved from the occupied territories to Canada, including 7,850 who obtained work visas—a fivefold increase compared to 2023, when 1,585 work visas were issued. According to the Canadian Ministry of Immigration, between December 2023 and September 2024, 3,425 temporary work visas and 4,424 regular work permits were granted to Israelis.
The exodus is attributed to Israel's precarious political and security situation, escalating conflict, and growing socioeconomic disparities.
Rising Emigration and Internal Displacement
Ynet, another Israeli news outlet, recently highlighted a rise in settlers leaving the occupied territories, even before the war began. The retaliatory strikes by regional resistance groups in solidarity with Gaza and Lebanon have forced around 70,000 settlers to flee northern areas, with many hesitant to return to their homes.
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Economic Decline Amid War
Israel's economy is also faltering, with its tourism and hospitality sectors taking a major hit. Israeli Channel 12 reported that 20% of the nation’s hotels have shut down since October 7, resulting in mass layoffs. Inbound tourism has dropped by 85%, with airlines canceling flights to Israel, further exacerbating the crisis.
Passenger traffic at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport fell by 43% during the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Economic analysts predict that the ongoing conflict will lead to a significant budget deficit, compounding Israel's financial woes.
As Israel grapples with military, social, and economic turmoil, the surge in emigration underscores a growing crisis of confidence among its citizens.
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Source: Israeli media