President Isaac Herzog visited the Jewish Agency’s Ulpan Etzion absorption center in Jerusalem on Wednesday, where he met new immigrants and staff and received an overview of the facility’s work.
The president was accompanied by Jewish Agency Chairman Maj.-Gen. (res.) Doron Almog and CEO Yehuda Stone.
During the visit, officials said that more than 60,000 new immigrants have arrived in Israel since the October 7, 2023, attacks.
Speaking at the center, Herzog said immigration during wartime reflects “faith, hope, and the deep bond between the Jewish people and their state.”
“In these challenging times, especially immigration to Israel takes on a particularly profound meaning,” the president said. “The immigrants arriving at this very moment bring with them inspiring courage and determination.”
Herzog says wartime immigration shows faith, resilience
He added that immigration and absorption efforts are “the clearest and strongest answer to all those who seek to undermine us.”
Herzog also praised the staff at the center for their “spirit of volunteerism, mutual responsibility, and dedication.”
Ulpan Etzion is one of the country’s main absorption centers, providing Hebrew language instruction and support for new immigrants adjusting to life in Israel.