Israelis fly home to vote as election countdown begins
Some are cutting short trips or returning for just 24 hours, spending heavily to cast ballots in an election they see as pivotal
With just days to go before Israel’s 2026 elections, Israelis living and traveling abroad are boarding flights home to vote.
Tens of thousands are expected to return, some for only a few hours, accepting steep travel costs and time away from work to have their say.
Their arrivals follow an extensive effort to mobilize Israelis overseas. Campaigns have invested in outreach, while celebrities and social media users have urged eligible voters to return, arguing that their ballots could help determine the outcome of a close race.
Among them is Yuval, who is returning from a post-army trip through South America. Like other Israelis making the journey, she is adjusting her plans to be at her polling station on Election Day.
Their arrivals follow an extensive effort to mobilize Israelis overseas. Campaigns have invested in outreach, while celebrities and social media users have urged eligible voters to return, arguing that their ballots could help determine the outcome of a close race.
For some, the decision is deeply personal. The October 7 attacks and their aftermath have given this election particular significance.
Neria, who lost friends in the attacks, returned from New York to Tel Aviv, hoping his vote will help bring about the change he wants to see.
Neria, who lost friends in the attacks, returned from New York to Tel Aviv, hoping his vote will help bring about the change he wants to see.
Ido Eitan is also making the journey from New York, just a month after relocating there with his family. He plans to spend only 24 hours in Israel. Despite the expense and disruption, he considers voting an obligation.
The costs extend beyond airfare. Returning voters must also account for time off work, transportation and somewhere to stay, even when their visit lasts barely a day.
Meanwhile, unusually cheap Election Day travel deals suggest softer demand for overseas vacations among Israelis already in the country, as voters weigh a getaway against a trip to the polls.
With six days remaining, those flying home are making their priorities clear: however brief the visit or expensive the journey, they want a say in Israel’s future.