Israel is facing a significant labor shortage, exacerbated by the recent conflict with Hamas, prompting the country to seek tens of thousands of workers from India. This move comes at a time when Palestinian workers, who have long been vital to Israel’s construction and other sectors, are being barred from entering the country.
Before the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas and Israel’s response in Gaza, Israel was already in discussions with India regarding the recruitment of workers. However, the conflict has led to new restrictions on Palestinian workers and the departure of many foreign workers, particularly from Thailand.
Israeli authorities are now aiming to recruit 10,000 to 20,000 Indian migrant workers in the coming months, a number that would rival the total foreign workers who entered Israel through bilateral agreements in 2021. This recruitment drive reflects Israel’s efforts to address the void left by the absence of Palestinian workers, who constituted a significant portion of the construction workforce.
The decision to turn to Indian workers is also influenced by the warming of relations between Israel and India in recent years. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly embraced Israel, leading to increased cooperation between the two countries. An agreement signed in May aimed to send 42,000 Indian construction and nursing workers to Israel.
While Israeli officials deny that the recruitment is intended to replace Palestinian workers, they acknowledge the urgent need to fill the labor gap. The conflict has disrupted the employment of Palestinians in Israel and Israeli settlements, leading to a sharp decline in their numbers.
However, the move to recruit Indian workers has sparked controversy in India, with some unions and activists criticizing the decision due to concerns about the working conditions and the ongoing conflict in the region. There are also reports of discriminatory practices in the recruitment process, with some recruiters allegedly favoring Hindu applicants over Muslim ones.
Despite these concerns, many Indian workers are eager to seize the opportunity to work in Israel, attracted by the promised salaries and the need to support their families. While some worry about the risks involved, others see it as a chance for a better life despite the challenges.
The recruitment of Indian workers represents a significant shift in Israel’s labor market dynamics, driven by the aftermath of the conflict and the need to sustain essential sectors like construction and healthcare. As the recruitment process unfolds, it remains to be seen how this influx of workers will impact Israel’s economy and its relationship with both India and Palestine.
(Source: Washington Post | Al Jazeera |
