Netanyahu says Israel to 'significantly increase' foreign workforce

Jerusalem: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday his cabinet had decided to ease regulations and "significantly increase" the foreign workers quota in Israel as the country faces a labour shortage amid the Gaza war.

Among the steps Israel will take is to allow entry of more than 300,000 foreign workers, or up to 3.3 per cent of the population. The statement said this was meant to cover shortages across the economy, including in construction, agriculture and nursing.

"This is an important decision for businesses, for our economy and also for our security," said Netanyahu.