Dozens of Palestinian workers in Israel returned to besieged Gaza on Friday after the Israeli government decided to expel them. These workers were among the Gazans who were previously in Israel when Hamas launched an attack on the country, resulting in numerous casualties. Israel responded with a bombing campaign on Gaza. Prior to the attacks, around 18,000 Gazans had permits to work in Israel, where they could earn more than in Gaza. The government stated that there will be no more Palestinian workers from Gaza and those who were already in Israel will be sent back. Video footage showed men of all ages entering Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel. Some expressed mistreatment in Israel, stating that they were detained and placed in unknown locations. The Israeli cabinet also announced deductions from funds designated for Gaza, including funding from the Palestinian Authority. Israel had previously issued work permits for Gazans to encourage them to distance themselves from Hamas. The enclave has been cut off from the rest of the world for nearly 17 years and faces high levels of unemployment and poverty. Following Hamas’ attacks, Israel imposed a “complete siege” on Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Israeli airstrikes have caused numerous casualties.
Israel’s Expulsion of Gazan Workers to War-Torn Enclave: Understanding the Impact and Challenges
