Israel sees sharp rise in long-term emigration, university study finds

Nearly 270,000 Israelis left the country for at least three months between 2023 and 2025, according to a new study by researchers at Tel Aviv University, raising concerns about a sharp increase in long-term emigration and its potential impact on the country's future.

The research, reported by Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, found that 86,509 people left Israel for extended periods in 2023, followed by 91,499 in 2024 and 90,922 in 2025.

The annual average of around 90,000 departures marks a significant increase from the roughly 60,000 recorded each year between 2010 and 2019.

Academics warn of growing trend

Professor Itai Ater, who supervised the study at Tel Aviv University's Coller School of Management, described the figures as "deeply troubling".

He warned that the greatest concern was not only the number of people leaving but the possibility that the trend could continue to accelerate.

"The real danger lies in the loss of equilibrium and the possibility that emigration numbers will continue rising rather than remain at their current levels," he said.

Researchers said the findings point to a clear shift after years in which migration levels had remained relatively stable.

Brain drain fears

The study also highlighted growing concerns over the loss of highly skilled workers.

Previous research cited by Yedioth Ahronoth found increasing numbers of doctors, engineers, academics, PhD graduates and high-income professionals leaving the country.

The newspaper said Israel's economy depends heavily on skilled workers, particularly in the technology sector and other knowledge-based industries, making the loss of experienced professionals a long-term challenge.

Conflict adds to uncertainty

The study comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, which began in October 2023, alongside military operations in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran.

Israeli military figures show that at least 966 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the start of the Gaza war.

With Israel's population now exceeding 10 million, researchers said the sustained rise in long-term emigration has disrupted the country's migration balance and could have lasting consequences if the trend continues.

Read more:

• Israel's Netanyahu rejects Gaza withdrawal before Hamas disarmament
• Azerbaijan balances support for Palestine while maintaining ties with Israel
• Arab states welcome Gaza agreement, urge Israel to fully implement deal

Tags

News Israel Migration Israelis Tel Aviv University