ISRAEL TOURISM
July 2025
Government Approves Michael Itzhakov as New Director-General of Ministry of Tourism
Israel Invites U.S. Travelers to Experience its Rich Culture and History T he Government of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism is The Ministry of Tourism sends communication to U.S. travel agencies: We are now open to the public
Israeli government gave its final approval to Minister Haim Katz’s proposal to appoint Michael Itzhakov as the new Director-General of the Ministry of Tourism I tzhakov, 37, is married and resides in Netanya. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in project to house 90,000 evacuees in hotels, a project with an estimated total
with countries issuing travel warnings, Israel remains steadfast in its message that the country is open for tourism and that the situation is improving. In fact, tourism professionals, including those in Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, are working around the clock to ensure that every traveler has a safe and welcoming experience. The Ministry of Tourism emphasized the country’s resilience in a communication to U.S. travel agencies. Its message was one of encouragement, highlighting the careful attention being given to traveler safety. Shahar emphasized that Israel’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong revival, with an unwavering focus on ensuring traveler safety. He highlighted that all ongoing organized tours across the country are being carried out with the utmost attention to security and guest comfort.
sending a clear message to American travelers: Israel is open, safe, and eager to welcome visitors back to its shores. The invitation comes as the country moves towards healing from a period of turbulence, focusing on resilience and unwavering commitment to maintaining tourism amidst the ongoing challenges. Despite the ongoing conflict in the region, Israel is determined to show the world that it remains a peaceful destination for those seeking to experience its rich culture, history, and landscapes. The past few months have been trying for the country, with air corridors closed, and El Al flights rerouted to neighboring “friendly countries” as tensions rose. However, that chapter is now behind, and the government is focused on reigniting the tourism sector. While global headlines have painted a grim picture of the situation,
Economics and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies. Over the past decade, Itzhakov has held a series of key positions within the Knesset and the government. Since 2023, he has served as the Chief of Staff for the Minister of Tourism. Among his previous roles, he was responsible for legislative affairs in both the Knesset and the government while in the office of the Minister of Labor and Social Welfare. He spearheaded the legislation of dozens of laws in the 20th Knesset, including the historic law increasing disability allowances and a reform to change long-term care benefits. At the Ministry of Tourism, Itzhakov planned and executed a series of strategic initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the tourism industry in the wake of the recent war. He was responsible for the national
cost exceeding 7 billion ILS. Additionally, he promoted the initiative for mixed-use land designation for hotels, which is expected to accelerate the construction of new hotel rooms in Israel. Minister of Tourism Haim Katz stated, “Michael brings with him rich experience in the work of the Knesset and the government, as well as in the core areas of the Ministry of Tourism. The tourism industry is facing its biggest crisis ever, and I am confident that Michael will optimally implement my policies and advance the necessary immediate and long-term actions for the rehabilitation and prosperity of tourism. I would like to thank the outgoing Director- General, Danny Shahar, for his dedication in fulfilling his role, his fruitful work, and his significant contribution”.
4 • www.itn.co.il
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker