Our Bureau
Tel Aviv
As tensions escalate between Israel and Hamas, the number of Indian citizens in Israel has notably increased, raising concerns about their safety amid the ongoing conflict. Currently, approximately 26,000 Indians reside in Israel, primarily working as caregivers, construction workers, and in the IT and diamond trading sectors. This figure has surged since the conflict began last October, as Israel has actively recruited Indian workers to fill roles previously held by Palestinians, whose work permits were revoked due to the war.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid unnecessary travel and remain close to safety shelters. The advisory was prompted by the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and a Hezbollah commander, which has heightened fears of retaliation from Iran and its allies. The embassy is closely monitoring the situation and has emphasized the need for vigilance among its citizens.
Despite the risks, India has continued to send workers to Israel under a government-to-government agreement. In April this year, a group of 60 Indian construction workers was dispatched to Israel, marking the first batch of a larger recruitment effort that aims to bring in 1,500 workers. This initiative is part of a broader plan to hire up to 100,000 Indian workers to support Israel’s construction sector, which is facing labor shortages due to the ongoing conflict.
Air travel disruptions have also been reported, with Air India canceling flights to Tel Aviv until August 8, and several international airlines avoiding the region’s airspace due to safety concerns. The Israeli Airports Authority has assured that its airspace remains safe, but the cancellations reflect the growing apprehension surrounding the conflict.
Indian students have also become a significant presence in Israel, comprising the largest group of foreign students in the country. In the 2021-2022 academic year, there were nearly 1,700 Indian students in Israel, surpassing those from China.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Indian government is taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens in Israel, while also balancing the demand for Indian labor in the region.
