the construction sector at a standstill in Israel, “a huge problem for the economy”

Since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli economy has been hit hard. Particularly the construction sector, because Palestinian workers can no longer go to Israel.

In front of a huge 26-story tower under construction in the center of Tel Aviv, Maxime Benchimon, the site’s security manager, explains that he is having difficulty finding workers: “Palestinian workers, who had permission to return to Israel, no longer have it because of the war. We had friendly ties, everything was fine, but since October 7, they can no longer come. We have them replaced by Russian, Moldovan, Chinese workers, and all kinds of foreigners.”

“In fact, they are the big losers, because this work was their means of subsistence. It hurts my heart, they have families and children to feed.”

Maxime Benchimon, building safety manager

at franceinfo

Before October 7, nearly one in three construction workers was Palestinian: around 80,000 came from the West Bank and 3,400 from the Gaza Strip.

A lasting divide with the Palestinians

The other loser is the Israeli economy: 70% of construction sites in the country are at a standstill. Since October 7, the world has had its eyes fixed on the fate of the hostages and the fighting in the Gaza Strip. “This is a huge problem for the Israeli economy!”develops Shaï Powzner, representative of builders and building industrialists in Israel. “Hopefully, in three months, we’re going to be able to bring back a lot more manpower.”

“Israel is negotiating an agreement with India and other countries to ensure that workers can come. The goal is to find a solution for the weeks and months to come.”

Shai Powzner, representative of builders and building industry in Israel

at franceinfo

Professionals in the sector therefore expect to do without their neighbors for months, even years, a sign of a lasting divide with the Palestinians.