Thai workers flock back to Israel

Dozens of Thai workers continue to arrive in Israel, carrying hopes for a better future, even as a fragile ceasefire takes hold following a recent US-Iran agreement. This movement contrasts with the ongoing impact of the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 39 Thai nationals and the abduction of 31 others.

Remarkably, Thailand's labor force in Israel has not only recovered but expanded since the attack. Pre-attack figures of around 30,000 workers have grown to approximately 50,000. These individuals are employed across various sectors, including agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and services. This growth persists despite repeated tragedies, such as the deaths of four agricultural workers in a Hezbollah rocket strike in November 2024 and a Thai farm worker killed by shrapnel from Iranian munitions earlier this year. While 28 Thai hostages were released alive, three died in captivity or during the conflict.

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If applicants can greet employers in English and Hebrew, they have a better chance of getting hired.

For many Thai workers, the financial incentives offered in Israel significantly outweigh the perceived risks. One 43-year-old resident of Nonthaburi, who requested anonymity, is heading to Israel for a position with a retail company. She learned of the opening through family connections and applied via Thailand's Department of Employment. The offered monthly salary of approximately 77,000 baht is several times what she could earn in Thailand. She underwent training, improved her English and Hebrew language skills, and passed a competitive examination, noting that bilingualism improves hiring chances.

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I just want my family to have a comfortable life.

The financial commitment for such work is substantial, with contract-related expenses and processing fees costing around 150,000 baht for a five-year, three-month contract. However, the calculation is straightforward for many, especially those supporting families. This worker's 18-year-old daughter is attending university, with tuition fees alone costing between 40,000 and 50,000 baht per semester. Despite her husband's financial contribution, household expenses remain a challenge. "I just want my family to have a comfortable life," she stated, hoping her earnings will allow for early retirement.

When asked about the conflict, she acknowledged the risks but expressed a pragmatic outlook. "I am not afraid of the current situation," she said. "Regardless of where we are, we could die anytime. The economy at home is unstable. I would rather come here and take the risk." Around 40 other Thai workers traveled with her under the same recruitment program, many being first-time arrivals in Israel, underscoring the persistent demand for labor despite the volatile environment.

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I am not afraid of the current situation. Regardless of where we are, we could die anytime. The economy at home is unstable. I would rather come here and take the risk.