According to French newspaper La Croix, an estimated 10,000 Israelis have chosen Greece as their new home following the escalation of violence in the Middle East. The report, titled “Far from the Promised Land and the war: the Israelis settling in Greece”, highlights a sharp rise in Israeli migration since the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023.
Of the approximately 80,000 Israelis who have left the country since that date, around 10,000 are believed to have relocated to Greece- drawn by its geographic proximity, Mediterranean lifestyle, and more stable political climate.
Some of the new arrivals are professionals seeking business opportunities, while others are fleeing what they describe as a society increasingly defined by internal violence and shrinking democratic freedoms. One Israeli woman, a business consultant who left Tel Aviv immediately after the Hamas attacks, told La Croix:
“Israel is no longer a democracy. This war is unjust and illegitimate- and we started it. Continuing this way will fuel hatred and war for years, maybe decades.”
La Croix notes that Greece’s welcoming stance- including flexible visa extensions- combined with the familiar climate, cuisine, and cost of living, has made it a popular European destination. Many cite growing concern over security and strong opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies as driving factors behind their decision.
The article underscores a broader trend: Greece is emerging as a key safe haven for Israelis seeking both refuge and a new beginning in the wake of continued regional instability.
Also read: 20 special flights from Larnaca to Israel & Jordan
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