September 2026
U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee and Israeli Tourism Leaders Launch Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Israel’s Tourism Recovery A new high-level initiative brings together diplomats, government officials, and hospitality pioneers to expand direct flights, boost visitor confidence, and launch innovative travel programs for American visitors
I srael’s top tourism executives and hospitality leaders met last month with United States Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, for a pivotal working session aimed at reinvigorating incoming tourism from the United States. The strategic summit focused on strengthening cross-border collaboration, expanding direct flight routes, and crafting a long-term national strategy to position Israel once again among the world’s most compelling and welcoming travel destinations. The high-level delegation featured key figures across Israel’s travel ecosystem, Hotel Association; Michael Itzchakov – Director General of the Ministry of Tourism; David Fattal – Founder and Owner of the Fattal Hotel Group; Rami Levy – President of Catalyst Global Consulting Group; Yossi Fatael – CEO of the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association; Avi Jack – owner of The Drisco Hotel in Tel Aviv’s historic American Colony; Hagar Sharan – CEO of the Israel Hotel Association; and Romy Gurodissky – Director of including Eli Cohen – President of the Israel
the Coordination Bureau of Israel’s Tourism Industry. The meeting took place under the banner of the Israel Tourism Recovery Forum (ITRF), a newly established strategic platform uniting government leaders, private sector innovators, airlines, hoteliers, and international partners. The Forum’s overarching vision is to formulate practical, high-impact initiatives that will accelerate Israel’s tourism comeback and showcase the country as a global benchmark for how tourism can drive economic revitalization and foster deep, international personal connections. During the session, Ambassador Huckabee was presented with a detailed overview of the current landscape, including both the key challenges and the immense potential awaiting Israel’s travel industry during the recovery phase. Industry leaders outlined practical measures to restore international travel confidence, highlight authentic visitor experiences, and significantly increase tourism from North America. In response, Ambassador Huckabee shared his vision
for expanding bilateral tourism cooperation and reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to ongoing dialogue and joint initiatives designed to encourage more Americans to experience Israel firsthand. Improving air connectivity emerged as a top strategic priority during the discussions. Michael Itzchakov, Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the vital importance of expanding direct flights between major American cities and Israel. He detailed the ministry’s active efforts to encourage international carriers to resume services and launch new non-stop routes, noting that robust flight availability is the single most important catalyst for rapid tourism recovery. Echoing these priorities, David Fattal, Founder and Owner of the Fattal Hotel Group, underscored that tourism remains a cornerstone of the Israeli economy, with the United States standing as its most significant source market. Fattal pointed out that the return of global airlines, expanded flight capacity, deeper outreach
to travel agencies, and continued investment in hotel infrastructure are crucial to unlocking growth. Emphasizing the broader impact of every journey, Fattal remarked that each American tourist visiting Israel represents a genuine expression of confidence in the country, its economy, and its future. Addressing international perception, Yossi Fatael, CEO of the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association, noted a distinct contrast between public perception abroad and on-the-ground reality. Citing objective data and global security rankings, he observed that statistical measures demonstrate Israel remains remarkably safe for travelers- often outperforming major European and American urban centers. However, overcoming media-driven perception remains a critical priority for encouraging prospective visitors to make the trip. Participants also discussed the importance of continuously reviewing travel advisories to ensure they accurately reflect evolving conditions on the ground.
Israel Travel News • 9
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