The Agriculture Ministry plans to allow around 8,000 Palestinians from the West Bank to enter Israel for agricultural work, as many foreign laborers have left due to the conflict with Hamas. The proposal would limit permits to Palestinian women of all ages and men aged 60 or older, as these groups are perceived as posing a lower security risk. The plan has faced opposition from National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who is concerned about the security implications of introducing Palestinian workers during wartime.
Since October 7, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing many and kidnapping others, thousands of foreign workers, primarily from Thailand, Nepal, and the Philippines, have left the country. This departure was compounded by able-bodied Israelis being called up for military service as Israel prepares for a potential large-scale incursion into Gaza.
The Agriculture Ministry’s proposal states that only agricultural workers already known to the farmers who would employ them will be considered for permits, subject to security approval. This plan is similar to existing arrangements for bringing Palestinian workers to support the hotel industry, and Palestinians have continued entering to work in various industries, despite security concerns.
Farmers have been affected by the shortage of labor, particularly in the western Negev, an area hit by the October 7 attacks and frequent rocket attacks from Gaza. The Agriculture Ministry estimates a shortfall of about 10,000 laborers.
In addition to allowing Palestinian workers, the ministry is looking to retain or attract foreign workers by extending existing five-year residency permits by two years. They are also collaborating with the Population and Immigration Authority to bring workers from other countries and offering bonuses to both Israelis and foreign nationals willing to work on farms. They have also invested in placing bomb shelters in open areas.
