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Ben Gurion Airport

Australian Family Becomes First Olim of 2026

A Sydney family — Trevor and Dalit with their daughter Ashira — landed at Ben-Gurion Airport on January 1 to become Israel’s first new immigrants of 2026, the Aliyah Ministry announced. Their son, Levi Zaks, made aliyah earlier and serves in the IDF, a point of pride the family shared as they began their new chapter.

The ministry said their arrival reflects steady momentum in aliyah interest as the new year opens, with logistical teams assisting newcomers from paperwork to housing and school placement. The family’s story resonated with communities in both Israel and Australia following months of preparation and anticipation.

They credited support networks for smoothing the process and expressed gratitude for the welcome at the airport — a symbolic start to life in Israel that many Olim describe as both emotional and energizing.

(JPost/VFI News)

“Father, bless new immigrant families beginning life in Israel. Provide the homes, friendships, and livelihoods they need. Give them favor in language learning and integration, and let them be strengthened and encouraged as they plant deep roots in the land.”