The Case for Making Aliyah in 2026

R.E.: When did it become your personal mission to help the Jewish world make Aliyah?

H.F.: I was born in NY and when I was a teenager, I moved to Israel with my family. I went to the army, and got my BA in Political science from Bar Ilan. Then I started blogging about tech and this is how my career took off. I met with hundreds of entrepreneurs and helped many start-ups grow. I was very successful and I thought I would be able to retire soon.

When October 7 happened, I shut down my business even if it meant giving up on financial security and dedicated all my time becoming Israel’s biggest advocate. The world needed someone to defend Israel and fight for it. So that’s what I did, and still do everyday. I meet with people to guide them in the Aliyah process (sometimes I have 3 or 4 back to back meetings in the same day). I post tirelessly on social media to debunk lies about Israel. I share what it’s like to live in our beautiful land and the miracles that come with it. It’s a full-time job.

“The world needed someone to defend Israel and fight for it.”

R.E.: What do you tell people when they share their fears and doubts about moving to Israel?

H.F.: I hear so many people telling me how difficult life would be regarding Parnassa, affordability, language, culture… but those are just excuses that are no longer valid. There are so many beautiful areas where you can live that are very affordable. Many American communities are increasingly moving in groups. You don’t have to speak Hebrew. Look, I’m not saying it’s easy, I’m just saying this is a much better (if not the only) option than staying where you are.

R.E.: Even with the current safety threats?

H.F.: My brother was killed in a terrorist attack in September 2018, I know firsthand what antisemitism feels like. But at least we have an army here, our own. And yes, the IDF failed us on October 7 but we have the strongest army. And when you think about it, there is nowhere else in the world that has soldiers patrolling everywhere to protect you. And not just jews. The IDF protects everyone. So come here and help us fight and protect our country. Hasbara and Aliyah go hand in hand. The future is here.

R.E.: What about those who say they have to stay in their country to support the rest of the world’s jewry?

H.F.: That’s what jews said in Germany. And even way back when in Egypt, people chose to stay back. We all know what happened next. People don’t want to give up their comfort even if it leads them to their destruction. Think about all the decisions you’ve made in your life, you don’t tell yourself: “well I haven’t fallen in the pit yet”. So learn your lesson from history and make a smarter move.

R.E.: And to all those who want to make Aliyah but can’t for different reasons (elderly relatives, career, kids etc…)?

H.F.: Prepare an exit strategy. Be ready, so when the time comes, you have what you need.

R.E.: How do you stay inspired on a daily basis?

H.F.: How can you not? There is so much beauty and unity here to be grateful for. I even started an initiative where I post a picture of a different place in Israel with the hashtag #realIsrael so people can witness the beauty of it all.

R.E.: What are some resources that you think would be helpful for people on the fence?

H.F.: Believe it or not, the Nefesh b’Nefesh website has everything you need! From job boards, to assistance finding the right school for your kids, helping you open a bank account, Ulpan options, representatives of different communities will set up a Zoom call with you to talk to you about the best options for you, and so much more! They are also developing resources to connect people living there in different fields to assist those moving, in terms of career transfers, and support looking for the right work environment. We are so lucky to be part of this amazing nation always looking out for each other!

R.E.: Has your message changed over the years?

H.F.: On a personal level I understand that there might be legitimate reasons that can be holding you back, but on a collective level, there are no more excuses. We beg jews to come home. Now is the time. Now more than ever. Be a part of History.

And when you finally make Aliyah, send me a message, Shawarma’s on me!

“Describe Israel in 3 words: Dream. Come. True.” Hillel Fuld