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The Israeli government has taken a significant step in addressing the aliyah crisis from Ethiopia by appointing a special envoy to investigate the situation and recommend potential solutions. Thousands of Ethiopian citizens have claimed their entitlement to aliyah, which is the act of Jewish immigration to Israel, while the Israeli government maintains that the process of aliyah from Ethiopia has concluded.
Aliyah and Integration Minister of Absorption, Ofir Sofer, announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. (res.) Harel Knafo to lead a team tasked with assessing Israel’s current immigration policy with regards to Ethiopian citizens. The decision was made in response to the growing concerns and challenges surrounding the aliyah claims of Ethiopian citizens.
Brig. Gen. (res.) Harel Knafo brings a wealth of experience to the position, having held various key roles within the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Throughout his career, he commanded the Inter-Army Command and Staff College, played the pivotal role of Chief of Staff of the Southern Command, and led the 890th Battalion of the Paratroopers. Notably, he also took charge of the Shomron Brigade during the second intifada, commanded the Reserve Brigade of the Paratroopers, and served as the chief of Bislamach – the prestigious school for infantry officers and professionals.
Knafo and his team will focus their efforts on evaluating the existing immigration policy concerning Ethiopian citizens and their claims of aliyah. Their investigation will pay special attention to those awaiting aliyah in the cities of Addis Ababa and Gondar. The team will delve into the unique challenges faced by these individuals and families, seeking to provide insights and recommendations to address their concerns.
Pending approval from the Civil Service Commission, Knafo and his team will begin their comprehensive assessment without delay. Their findings, once submitted to Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer, will likely play a critical role in shaping potential policy adjustments and decisions pertaining to aliyah from Ethiopia.
The aliyah crisis from Ethiopia has garnered attention both domestically and internationally. Ethiopian citizens who claim their right to aliyah have been met with bureaucratic challenges and delays, leaving them in limbo while awaiting their immigration to Israel. With Knafo’s extensive background in leadership and military strategy, his appointment is expected to bring a methodical and thorough approach to tackling this complex issue.
As the team commences its work, all eyes are on the progress and outcomes of their investigation. The Israeli government’s proactive stance in appointing a dedicated envoy demonstrates its commitment to finding a just and equitable resolution to the aliyah crisis from Ethiopia, thereby addressing the aspirations of Ethiopian citizens seeking to make Israel their new homeland.