The Great Departure: Why Israelis Are Choosing To Be Exiles Over ‘Super-Sparta’ – OpEd
For nearly eight decades, the State of Israel defined its success by Aliyah—the immigration of Jews to the land. However, as 2025 draws to a close, the nation faces a stark reversal of this historic ethos.
A “silent exodus” has morphed into a tangible demographic crisis, with over 82,000 citizens departing in 2024 alone, and similar numbers recorded throughout 2025. Recent polls by the Israel Democracy Institute reveal a startling figure: 27% of all Israelis—and significantly higher percentages among young secular professionals—are actively considering emigration.
While security concerns following October 7, 2023, are the obvious catalyst, they are not the sole driver. A deeper analysis reveals that this mass departure is a vote of no confidence in the state’s leadership. Specifically, the policies and political survivalism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have created a fracture in the Israeli “social contract” that many citizens now feel is irreparable.
One of the most defining moments of 2025 was Prime Minister Netanyahu’s declaration that Israel must become a “Super-Sparta”—a nation permanently mobilized, economically self-reliant, and prepared to stand alone against global pressure. While intended to project strength, this vision has had a chilling effect on the country’s liberal, secular majority.
Most Israelis in the........





















Toi Staff
Gideon Levy
Sabine Sterk
Tarik Cyril Amar
Stefano Lusa
John Nosta
Gilles Touboul
Mark Travers Ph.d
Daniel Orenstein