Full Breakdown
Sheffi Paz, Anti-Illegal Immigration Activist, Dies at 74
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Death of a Long-time Campaigner
Prominent anti-illegal-immigration activist Sheffi Paz died on Monday morning at age 74 after a battle with cancer that was diagnosed for the fourth time within a month. The Save Tel Aviv organization announced her death, noting that she had spent her final years fighting for residents of south Tel Aviv’s older neighborhoods.
Background & Context – Activism Since 2013
Paz, the daughter of Holocaust survivors who immigrated from Poland as a child, worked as a translator and language editor before entering public activism. In 2013 she began leading protests against the presence of illegal migrants in south Tel Aviv, organizing demonstrations, confronting government officials, and filing legal challenges. Her confrontations led to multiple arrests; in September 2024 she was sentenced to 45 days in prison for graffiti and disturbing public order, a sentence she served before resuming her campaign. Paz also addressed the Knesset’s Special Committee for Foreign Workers on January 26 2026, underscoring her role in the national debate.
Official Statements & Responses – Tributes from Save Tel Aviv
They emphasized her commitment to “the invisible people” of south Tel Aviv and pledged to continue the campaign she led. Ozer added that the organization would maintain its focus on combating illegal immigration and supporting the neighborhood’s residents.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a very rapid and unexpected downward spiral," Ozer said.” — Amalia Ozer, and spokesperson, Yaakov Sela, paid tribute to her
- “The State of Israel has lost a precious asset, someone who cared for the invisible people.” — Amalia Ozer, and spokesperson, Yaakov Sela, paid tribute to her
Impact & Continuing Campaign – Future of the Movement
Following Paz’s death, Ozer told Walla that the organization intends to carry on her work, noting that “the struggle is not over.” She expressed uncertainty about finding a replacement for Paz’s public profile, while reaffirming that the group will sustain parliamentary efforts and grassroots activism. The Save Tel Aviv organization thus signals an ongoing push to influence immigration policy and address safety concerns in south Tel Aviv.