Israel's population growth rate in 2024 experienced a notable slowdown compared to the previous year, as reported by the state's Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The decrease has been primarily linked to Israelis leaving the country, marking a significant shift in migration patterns.
The ongoing multi-front conflict that Israel has been embroiled in for over a year has been cited as a key factor influencing these demographic changes. The CBS has emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of the war's impact on long-term migration trends, with a focus on data from November 2024 onwards.
According to the latest report released by the census office, Israel's population expanded by 1.1% in 2024, a decline from the 1.6% growth recorded in the previous year. The surge in emigration is highlighted as the primary reason for this deceleration, with approximately 82,700 residents leaving Israel during the year, a notable increase from the 55,000 departures in the preceding year.
By the end of December 2024, Israel's population surpassed the 10-million mark for the first time, reaching an estimated 10.027 million individuals. It is important to note that this figure includes foreign nationals residing in the country, contributing to the overall population count.
Israel's internal dynamics have also been impacted by political unrest, with mass protests erupting in 2023 against contentious government proposals aimed at restructuring the judicial system under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration.
Furthermore, the country has been grappling with significant military engagements, including a conflict with Hamas in Gaza that commenced in October 2023. The violence perpetrated by the Palestinian militant group resulted in substantial casualties and kidnappings, further escalating tensions in the region.
Israel's confrontations extend beyond its borders, with ongoing hostilities against the Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, as well as clashes with various militant groups in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts, coupled with the protracted internal and external challenges, have contributed to a complex and volatile environment for Israel.
