MK Kariv warns of emigration 'tsunami' as study shows nearly 270,000 people left Israel since 2023

MK Gilad Kariv, Chair of the Immigration, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee, warned of an emigration "tsunami" from Israel, citing a new Tel Aviv University study. The study, based on Central Bureau of Statistics data, revealed that 268,930 Israelis left the country for three or more consecutive months between 2023 and 2025, significantly higher than the 83,219 departures recorded a decade prior (2013-2015). Kariv stated, "Israel is facing a tsunami of emigration from the country, and the government is doing nothing about it." The research estimates that 45,000 to 50,000 citizens will have left Israel for a year or more in 2025. The study's authors highlighted that while current figures don't yet pose an immediate risk, continued emigration, particularly of professionals in high-tech, medicine, and academia, could have "difficult and serious consequences" for Israel's economy and security.