Chronicle poll results: Visiting Israel after Oct. 7
We asked our readers if they have been to Israel since Oct. 7, 2023. Here's what they said.
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: “Have you been to Israel since Oct. 7, 2023?” Of the 261 people who responded, 81% said no and 19% said yes. Comments were submitted by 72 people. A few follow.
I have not been back since 2006, and I am feeling Jewish guilt over it.
I’ve never been there.
We were hopeful to celebrate our daughters’ bat mitzvahs in Jerusalem but the current climate is too uncomfortable.
Get on a flight and go! Move beyond the headlines and you’ll see for yourself the resiliency, trauma, aspiration, innovation and gratitude Israelis are experiencing. It’s the best thing you can do to combat antisemitism.
I have been there three times as my son is in the reserves and has spent time on active duty, and I help take care of the grandkids when he is gone. I’m afraid to go.
I went in 2024 and 2025. I’m sad that my 2026 plans have fallen through due to the continuing instability. I know how much it encourages Israelis to see foreigners come even in hard times. I’m already planning trips for 2027 and 2028.
My next trip to Israel will likely be a one-way flight. I currently have no future plans to visit Israel, but it’s always in the back of my mind.
The war hasn’t stopped me. It just hasn’t been in my plans.
I just returned from a wonderful two-week vacation in Israel. We witnessed none of the turmoil or strife so frequently described in daily news headlines. Instead, we experienced a vibrant place where people were relaxed and seemed to know how to simply enjoy life.
My finances don’t allow me to go. If I had enough money I would have gone several times, since I have a brother there.
I have no plans to return till things calm down.
We were there in April of 2024 for three weeks. We felt very safe, even the night that Iran launched the missiles over Tel Aviv. The merchants were very happy to have some tourist business and we felt like we were doing a small part to help them.
I would love to go but travel insurance is too high.
I live here. PJC
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