TEL AVIV (VINnews)-About 50 Jewish immigrants from France and Britain arrived at Ben-Gurion Airport on a special flight amid the ongoing war, in a move hailed by Israeli officials as a symbol of resilience and solidarity.

The group landed at Israel’s main international airport, where they were welcomed as new olim, or immigrants under Israel’s Law of Return.

Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog, who serves as both Minister of Aliyah and Integration and chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, described the arrival as “a powerful statement from world Jewry.”

“This highlights the symbolic resilience: Jews from the Diaspora choosing to make Israel their home even in wartime, reinforcing national morale and demographic strength,” Almog said in a statement.

The flight was organized with support from the Jewish Agency and relevant government ministries, part of broader efforts to facilitate aliyah during a period of heightened security challenges. Officials have noted increased interest in immigration from Western countries in recent years, driven by factors including rising antisemitism abroad and a sense of connection to Israel during conflict.

No further details on the immigrants’ backgrounds or specific motivations were immediately available. The arrival comes as Israel continues military operations related to the war, with immigration figures showing fluctuations but sustained interest from Europe and North America in recent periods.

The Jewish Agency and Aliyah Ministry have reported thousands of new immigrants since the conflict escalated, viewing such moves as contributing to Israel’s long-term growth and unity.