Fear of an October 7 scenario: In Eilat they decided to break the mold

The Eilat City Council has decided to act to reduce dependence on thousands of workers from Jordan, fearing harm to residents' security and the infiltration of terrorist and criminal elements. The mayor has been instructed to present a plan within 60 days to reduce dependence and encourage the employment of Israelis, while appealing to the government. The decision was unanimous and supported by the Hotel Association.

The Eilat City Council unanimously decided to act to reduce dependence on thousands of workers from Jordan who arrive in the city daily for work in various sectors, including sensitive locations. The decision, submitted by the Tzamad and Young Eilat factions, expresses deep concern over the potential exploitation of the workers' entry route for the infiltration of terrorist and criminal elements, citing a past incident where a Jordanian assailant attacked workers at the Eilat port. The explicit comparison made is to Palestinian workers from Gaza who worked in Israel before October 7. Mayor Eli Lankri has been instructed to present a plan within 60 days to reduce dependence and encourage the employment of Israelis through professional training and improved conditions. If Israelis are not found, the municipality will work to bring foreign workers from other countries. The Tourism Ministry has approved a quota of 500 foreign workers for hotels in the city but acknowledges that previous incentives did not attract Israelis to maintenance jobs.