A survey of 1,012 Israeli adults (Jewish and Arab citizens) was conducted in September 2024 by Multicultural Insights and PORI. Using face-to-face interviews and random sampling methods, the study examined how the October 7, 2023 events and ongoing conflict affect Israelis’ views on emigration, the conflict’s future, and Israel’s prospects. The sample was designed to be representative based on 2022 Census data.

 

The events of October 7th, 2023, led to a noticeable shift in attitudes towards emigration — 15% of respondents indicated considering immigration compared to 9% in the preceding year, characterized by extreme social unrest and numerous demonstrations against the government’s plans to change the judicial system.

Figure 1. Emigration Considerations Before and After October 7, 2023.

In the tumultuous year preceding the October 7^th, 2023 events, emigration considerations linearly decreased with age, from 14% among 18-24 years old to 4% among 65+ years old. Although younger respondents still report emigration plans in higher rates than older adults, the relative change in plans increases with age.

Figure 2. Emigration considerations before and after October 7 by age.

Another noticeable trend is the dependency of interest in emigration on the level of education. While only 6% of participants with below high school education considered emigration after October 7th, the share of respondents considering emigration in the same period jumps to 16% for high school graduates, respondents with post high school education, and respondents with bachelor’s degrees, declining only slightly (to 14%) for graduate degree holders.

Figure 3. Emigration consideration after October 7, 2023, by education.

Of those that planned to leave the country prior to October 7^th, 2023, about one quarter changed their minds following the events, and decided to stay (about 2% of the total population).  On the other hand, 9% of the population didn’t consider emigration prior to October 7^th, but now are considering this option.

Figure 4. Changes in emigration plans after October 7^th, 2023.

Although no differences were found between Jews and Arabs, among Jews the increase in emigration plans was very high in secular and traditional communities, and negligible among orthodox and ultra-orthodox Jews.