JERUSALEM (VINnews) — A leading figure in Israel’s ultra-Orthodox matchmaking world says thousands of men and women over age 28 remain unmarried, calling the situation a “hidden epidemic” with broad social consequences.

On the program “Dvar HaShavua” with Moshe Manes, Rabbi Yitzhak Perahim, head of the national matchmaking organization Lev Echad, said an estimated 16,000 singles — roughly 8,000 men and 8,000 women — in Israel’s Haredi community are currently without prospects.

“This is not only a personal tragedy,” he said. “It’s like losing an entire city.”

He attributed part of the crisis to a shortage of professional matchmakers, saying the work requires extensive time and effort with relatively modest pay. Without strong motivation or financial sustainability, many leave the field, he said.

Perahim also pointed to what he described as market dynamics within the community. Once men reach their mid-20s, he said, matchmakers may focus instead on younger candidates, leaving older singles with fewer opportunities. At the same time, he said, older singles can become more selective over time, complicating efforts to find matches.

His organization has introduced counseling programs aimed at helping singles reassess expectations and navigate what he described as emotional and psychological barriers to marriage.

Perahim also urged families to value and support matchmakers, including through financial compensation, arguing that the role is comparable in importance to other professional services.

He called on community members to become more proactive in suggesting potential matches and supporting older singles.

“Everyone can take part,” he said. “One suggestion can bring light into an entire home.”