Israel Eyes Indian Labour Force As Substitute For 90,000 Palestinian Construction Workers

In light of the recent conflict that began with the Hamas terror attack in Israel on 7 October, the Israeli construction industry has requested permission from the government to hire up to 100,000 Indian workers.

These workers would replace the 90,000 Palestinian labourers whose work permits were canceled due to the ongoing conflict, as reported by Hindustan Times.

With the approval awaited from the Israeli government, negotiations are currently underway with India, according to the report. However, India has not responded to this request as of yet, it added.

About a quarter of the Israeli construction industry's workforce consists of Palestinian workers.

Earlier in May, Israel and India signed an agreement allowing 42,000 Indian workers to come to Israel for employment, mainly in the construction and nursing sectors.

This agreement was initiated during the visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to India on 9 May.

Recently, Israel deported a significant number of Palestinian workers from the Gaza Strip back to Gaza. These workers had previously been permitted to work in Israel.

However, their work permits were revoked in the aftermath of the 7 October Hamas attack.