We won! The African Hebrew Israelites of Dimona Won’t Be Deported!
03/02/25
After a determined and lengthy four-year struggle that included legal appeals, protests, solidarity rallies, and over 18,000 signatures from activists – we succeeded in stopping the deportation of the Hebrew Israelites!
We are proud to stand with the African Hebrew Israelite Nation of Jerusalem community – an integral part of Dimona, and of Israeli society more broadly – in their fight to secure permanent legal status. In 2021, the Ministry of Interior notified community members of its intent to deport them from the country – despite a 2004 directive by then-Interior Minister Avraham Poraz to grant the community legal status. Some members, however, "fell through the cracks." In response, over 12,000 people signed a petition launched by Dr. Avi Ofer calling to halt the deportation and secure the community’s legal status.
The involvement of activists – through signing and helping fund the legal appeal – led to a temporary halt of the deportation until the court process could proceed. Since then, we’ve continued to support the community with protests outside the Ministry of Interior and district court, as well as in public rallies. Over time, the number of signatures on the petition grew to 18,000.
On April 20, 2025, we received important and encouraging news: the community members facing deportation were granted a two-year temporary residency status, ensuring they can remain in the country and easing the process of obtaining permanent legal status.
“The struggle was challenging, long, and at times painful,” said Ashriel Mor, the community’s spokesperson. “But thanks to faith, communal resilience, and unity – we were able to reach this historic moment. When God is with us – who can stand against us?”
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