According to a report by the organization A.S.F., approximately 23,000 Ukrainian nationals currently reside in Israel under a temporary group protection policy. This situation arises four years after the onset of the war in Ukraine, during which roughly 14,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Israel since February 2022, with an additional 19,000 already in the country, many as undocumented migrant workers. Despite their legal status and protection from deportation due to the threats in their homeland, these individuals have not been granted refugee status or access to crucial social aid, leading to substantial hardships in their daily lives.

The report highlights alarming statistics regarding the well-being of these Ukrainian refugees, indicating a rise in food insecurity, deteriorating health conditions, and increased vulnerability to labor exploitation and trafficking. By 2025, it is projected that a greater number of refugees will continue to struggle with these issues, reflecting not only the challenges posed by their temporary legal status but also the implications of their socio-economic integration into Israeli society. The ongoing lack of recognition as refugees represents a significant gap in protection and support, further compounding their struggles during this protracted conflict.

This situation raises significant humanitarian concerns and underscores the need for a reassessment of policies regarding refugee support in Israel. As the conflict in Ukraine endures, the international community, as well as local governments, may need to reconsider their responses to the needs of Ukrainian refugees to ensure that their basic human rights are respected and that they receive adequate assistance as they navigate their challenging circumstances.