The Jewish Agency, through its shaliach to Ethiopia Asher Seyum, has announced plans to turn the Gondar compound over to the municipal government when the final 400 olim depart Ethiopia for Israel on August 28th.

Calling the decision “sensitive” and “complex”, Seyum acknowledged pressure from the Israeli Ethiopian community to continue the formalized aliyah procedures, but says he is committed to the government decision.

This final phase – called Operation Dove’s Wings – was intended to bring the 30-year campaign of Ethiopian aliyah to a close. It was launched jointly last year by The Jewish Agency and the Government of Israel. At conclusion it will have brought approximately 2000 Ethiopian’s home.