Israel extends foreign-passport entry to allow citizens to return home ahead of October elections
“We will ensure that every Israeli who chooses to come to Israel and vote will be able to exercise their democratic right,” The Democrats MK Gilad Kariv.
The Population and Immigration Authority in Israel has extended the deadline for citizens with expired Israeli passports to enter the country using valid foreign passports. This extension, from September 30 to December 31, was approved by MK Gilad Kariv, chairman of the Knesset Immigration, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee.
The measure aims to facilitate the return of Israeli citizens abroad, particularly those planning to vote in the upcoming election. Kariv praised the authority's decision, emphasizing that it ensures every Israeli voter can exercise their democratic right. The extension comes as Israel prepares for its general election on October 27, a date without general absentee voting for citizens abroad.
Most Israelis overseas must travel to Israel to cast their ballots, leading to a surge in flight bookings. Suspicions have arisen that the Likud Party, which holds power in Israel, may attempt to hinder non-Likud voters from returning home by limiting flights. The Transportation Ministry, under Minister Miri Regev, has reportedly discussed unofficially restricting flights, fearing opposition party support among incoming voters.
Additionally, the Likud Party has threatened legal action against the Fly&Vote initiative, an organization helping Israelis abroad travel to Israel for voting. Likud claims the initiative violates election laws, particularly rules against providing benefits to voters or attempting to influence their choices.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
