'We're better without Palestinian workers': Construction heads say foreigners better for Israel

Heads of Omer Construction claim Israel's construction industry benefits from replacing Palestinian workers with foreign laborers, citing a 30% increase in output and improvements in quality and safety. The comments follow the state's halt on Palestinian workers' entry. The company, listed in December 2025, focuses on mega projects and reports a market cap of over NIS 2 billion.

Zeev Salant, co-CEO of Omer Construction and Engineering, stated that Israel's construction industry is better off without Palestinian workers, citing a 30% increase in output, longer work hours, and improved safety and quality. The company's leadership, including co-CEO Baruch Hadad, welcomed the switch to foreign laborers, noting advantages in quality and construction time. The comments come after Israel paused Palestinian laborers' access to work in the West Bank. Omer Construction, which held its IPO in December 2025, has a market cap over NIS 2 billion and focuses on mega projects. The article also discusses the company's history, its avoidance of public tenders, and its financial performance.