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Human RightsPalestinian Territories

Work for West Bank Palestinians increasingly restricted

Shristi Mangal Pal
February 10, 2026

Israel severely limited Palestinians' right to work after Hamas' October 7 attacks. This leaves many parents unable to provide for their families. Some are turning to the black market as their legal options run out.

https://p.dw.com/p/58T4z

Palestinians in the Israeli‑occupied West Bank face increasing hardship after Israel revoked 100,000 work permits following the 2023 attack by Islamist militant group Hamas. Families struggle with hunger and eviction, while some risk dangerous, illegal crossings to find jobs. Workers report insecurity and high black‑market fees. Israeli contractors now face costly labor shortages.

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