The French newspaper La Croix describes Greece as a ‘Promised Land’ for thousands of Israeli citizens who have permanently moved to the country to escape the war that erupted after Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023. According to the article, the number of Israelis relocating to Greece has significantly increased, with an estimated 10,000 out of the 80,000 who left Israel choosing Greece as their new home.
Some Israelis are relocating for professional reasons, while others are primarily seeking to escape a society where internal violence has become ‘structural.’ The publication highlights the case of a wealthy Israeli business consultant who decided to leave Tel Aviv immediately after the Hamas attack. In strong opposition to Netanyahu’s government, she took her two young children and has not returned since.
“Israel is no longer a democracy. This war (with Gaza) is unjust, it lacks legitimacy. And we started it. Continuing like this fuels hatred and war against Israel for years—perhaps decades,” she told La Croix. She added that breaking free from the censorship dominating Israeli society is not easy. “There, they hate me when I speak like this, but someone needs to say it. Today it’s simple: either you think like me or you’re an enemy.”
La Croix also notes that many Israelis feel at home in Greece due to its climate, food, cost of living, and the positive stance of Greek authorities who facilitate visa extensions. Economic opportunities and concerns over security, along with opposition to Netanyahu’s policies, further encourage relocation.