NEW DELHI (Dispatches) -- More than 20,000 Indian workers have migrated to the Israeli-occupied territories since late 2023 to fill a critical labor shortage caused by the ongoing war on Gaza and the suspension of Palestinian work permits, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
In a parliamentary response last week, State Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh revealed that between November 2023 and July 2025, approximately 6,730 construction workers and 44 caregivers arrived under a bilateral agreement signed by India and the occupying authorities. Additionally, around 7,000 caregivers and 6,400 construction workers entered the territories through private recruitment channels.
This surge in Indian laborers highlights the impact of the Israeli siege and military operation in Gaza, which has resulted in the revocation of work permits for more than 70,000 Palestinians. The construction sector, in particular, has faced a standstill due to labor shortages and rising costs, prompting Israeli-occupied authorities to seek workers abroad.
Recruitment centers in various Indian states saw thousands of job seekers lining up to apply, reflecting a stark contrast to India’s economic growth narrative. Despite being one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India struggles with severe income inequality and a shortage of full-time jobs, driving many workers to seek opportunities overseas.
However, the recruitment drive has met strong criticism from Indian labor unions. The All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU) condemned the campaign, calling it “suicidal” and accusing the Indian government of ignoring the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by facilitating labor support to the occupying forces.
Indian workers reportedly are attracted by wages up to three times higher than what they could earn at home. Recruitment agencies describe India’s role in sustaining the Israeli-occupied territories’ economy as “crucial” during this period of conflict and upheaval.
Despite some workers returning home due to skill mismatches or language barriers, the flow of laborers is expected to continue. The Indian government also confirmed that one agricultural worker was killed during the March 2024 Israeli aggression on Lebanon, while three others were injured in attacks related to the ongoing violence.
The massive displacement and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, including tens of thousands of deaths and widespread famine, continue to provoke international condemnation and calls for justice.
India’s growing labor involvement in the Israeli-occupied territories during this war raises serious moral and political questions about New Delhi’s stance amid the unfolding crisis, as Palestinians face mounting suffering under Israeli military operations.