A minor ethnic community in northeastern India claims to be one of Israel’s lost tribes. The Kuki people’s zeal has persuaded Israel’s Chief Rabbi to authorize their immigration to the Promised Land. Because Kuki men are historically fighters, the majority of them join the army after they arrive in Israel, leaving their spouses to acclimate to their new lives in the settlements.
Our correspondents visited the West Bengal valleys, where India and Bangladesh meet, as well as Burma, home to the fascinating Kuki tribe. These Asian Jews claim they were forced into exile over 27 centuries ago in this isolated valley. They follow an old form of Judaism and claim to be one of the lost tribes of Israel mentioned in the Bible, similar to the Ethiopian Falashas.
Tensions between the Indian and Burmese governments have risen in recent years, and the Kuki people’s desire for a brighter future in Israel is stronger than ever. Some of them have been able to emigrate to Israel and make Aliyah in recent years. The males, who are known for being tough fighters, frequently join the Israeli army, while their families relocate to the West Bank settlements. Our correspondent in the Middle East went to meet some of the people who have left everything behind to start a new life in the Promised Land.
