Israel’s blend of economic opportunity and promises of citizenship is drawing individuals from diverse backgrounds into its military efforts, reinforcing its ranks amid the ongoing Gaza conflict
Israel’s ongoing conflict with Gaza has seen increasing international involvement, especially from Indian and African nationals. Earlier this year, the Indian government announced 10,000 construction job openings in Israel, targeting workers from states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. These positions, offering salaries of 6,100 shekels (around $1,625) monthly, drew significant interest from Indians facing economic hardships.
Beyond construction work, Israel has also focused on its Indian-Jewish community, specifically the Bnei Menashe, to support its military efforts. A committee has been established in Tel Aviv to facilitate the migration of Indian Jews to Israeli-occupied territories.
Reports indicate that hundreds of Israeli citizens born in Indian states like Manipur and Mizoram have enlisted in the Israeli military to fight in Gaza.
Incentives for military service have been offered before. In January, Israel granted citizenship to the parents of a Filipino-Israeli reservist killed in Gaza, marking a clear strategy to encourage foreign enlistment in return for legal status
On October 20, 2023, India Today reported that at least 400 Indians were fighting alongside Israeli forces, although the exact number remains uncertain.
The South Asia Index later confirmed that 215 Indian citizens had joined Israel’s military efforts since the war began, and at least four had been killed in action.
Israel’s efforts to recruit foreign labor and fighters don’t stop at Indian nationals. African asylum seekers, most of whom are young men residing in Israel, have also been targeted. According to a report by Haaretz, Israel has offered permanent residency to African asylum seekers willing to fight in Gaza, though no official status has yet been granted to those who have participated. With over 30,000 African asylum seekers in Israel, many have volunteered for various war-related activities, such as working in agriculture and civilian command centers, especially after the October 7 attacks.
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