Over 1,600 Jewish women expected to visit Israel in 2026 as post-Oct. 7 solidarity and identity trips continue despite security concernsApproximately 1,600 Jewish women are expected to arrive in Israel on solidarity and identity trips in 2026 despite ongoing security challenges in the region, Momentum, a nonprofit organization that brings Jewish mothers to Israel for educational and leadership-focused programs, reported. The organization, which partners with the Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, has continued operating trips since November 2023, following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack and the ensuing war. Participants travel to Israel to engage with local communities, learn about current realities in the country and explore issues related to Jewish identity and peoplehood.2 View gallery Momentum brings Jewish mothers to Israel for educational and leadership-focused programs (Photo: Momentum)Momentum CEO Tara Brown said the organization views continued engagement with Israel as particularly important during periods of crisis."This is part of embracing the 'new normal' in a post-October 7 world, where presence, responsibility and solidarity matter more than ever," Brown said. "The message is simple: We are still coming. We are still showing up in person."Brown said participant safety remains a primary consideration, with itineraries developed in coordination with local partners and informed by ongoing assessments of conditions on the ground.The organization's flagship program consists of a seven-day educational trip to Israel. According to Momentum, participants return home with a deeper understanding of Israel and Jewish life, often taking on leadership and advocacy roles within their communities.2 View gallery The organization's flagship program consists of a seven-day educational trip to Israel (Photo: Momentum)Among recent participants was Marilyne Dray of Marseille, France, who joined Momentum's May trip as part of a delegation of 80 Jewish mothers from France."What I experienced was extraordinary," Dray said. "From the very first day of the trip, I discovered Israel in a way I had never known before. It was a powerful awakening."Additional Momentum trips scheduled for 2026 include July 6-12, featuring a group of Jewish female educators from around the world, as well as programs planned for October 19-25, November 2-8 and November 16-22.Founded in 2008, Momentum operates programs in partnership with Jewish organizations worldwide. The organization says more than 24,000 participants from over 450 partner organizations in 38 countries have taken part in its flagship Journey of Growth program. In 2023, Momentum received the Jerusalem Unity Prize, which recognizes efforts to strengthen unity within Israeli society and the broader Jewish world.