Operation 'Wings of Dawn' Announced by the Ministry's Deputy Director General
- Jan 30
- 3 min read
(January 30, 2026) A significant and impactful conference was held at the Kinneret Academic College, in Tiberias, on the 27th of January 2026. The event was meticulously organized by the Ministry of Aliya & Klita, with a specific focus on engaging with the B'nei Menashe youths. The primary objective of the conference was to provide these young individuals with crucial and comprehensive information regarding the various educational and job opportunities available within Israel, thereby facilitating their integration into society. The conference took place from 4 PM to 8 PM, and it was structured thoughtfully to address the myriad challenges that new olim, particularly the youth, encounter as they navigate their new lives in Israel. The event was led by Mr. Moshe Pines, the deputy director general of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita. In his speech, Pines shared a personal anecdote that resonated deeply with many attendees. He recounted the heart-wrenching experience of losing his home in Gush Katif to fire, which forced him to relocate to a neighborhood predominantly inhabited by members of the B'nei Menashe community. This experience not only highlighted the resilience and strength of the B'nei Menashe but also forged a lasting bond between Pines and the community that continues to thrive to this day. The event was ably hosted by Eyal Nitzan, the deputy director of the education
wing of the ministry, who ensured that everything ran smoothly and efficiently. Among the notable speakers was Ms. Miri Cohen, the director of the education wing, who delivered an uplifting address filled with words of encouragement. She urged all attendees to take full advantage of the educational systems and resources available to them, emphasizing the importance of education as a pathway to success and integration in their new homeland. After the formalities were completed, the atmosphere shifted to a more interactive format as teams of experts, including representatives from Degel Menashe, were assigned specific rooms and tables. Here, participants were encouraged to present their queries and concerns regarding the educational and job markets, fostering an environment of open dialogue and support. This setup allowed for personalized interactions, where the youth could seek guidance tailored to their unique situations and aspirations. As the evening progressed, the conference concluded on a high note with a sumptuous dinner, providing an opportunity for networking and further discussions among the participants and speakers. This
gathering not only served its immediate purpose of informing and empowering the B'nei Menashe youth but also reinforced the sense of community and belonging that is essential for successful integration into Israeli society. The event was a testament to the commitment of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita to support new immigrants in their journey towards a brighter and more fulfilling future in Israel.
The director general made an important announcement regarding the commencement of 'Mivtza Kanfei Shachar,' or Operation Wings of Dawn. This operation is a monumental initiative aimed at facilitating the return of the remaining 5,800 B'nei Menashe, who are currently residing in India, back to their ancestral homeland of Israel. The name of the operation, which translates to "Wings of Dawn," beautifully encapsulates the hope and renewal that this project represents for the B'nei Menashe people. It symbolizes not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional homecoming for those who have long awaited the opportunity to reunite with their heritage and families. The ambitious project is meticulously planned to unfold over a span of five years, commencing in the first quarter of 2026 and aimed for completion by the year 2030. This timeline reflects a well-thought-out approach to ensure that the integration process is smooth and supportive for all involved. Each year, it is anticipated that more than 1,000 B'nei Menashe will successfully reunite with their families in Israel. This gradual approach not only allows for careful planning and execution but also ensures that the returning families receive the necessary support during their transition. Director General Pines has taken up this noble and momentous endeavor with a profound sense of responsibility and commitment, embodying the spirit and aspirations of all B'nei Menashe to return home. The ethos behind this initiative is clear: no one should be left behind, emphasizing the importance of community and family bonds.
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