Israel Launches Pilot Program for Gazans to Work in Indonesia

For the first time, approximately 100 Gazans will travel to Indonesia to work in the construction industry under a voluntary migration pilot program initiated by Israel, according to Hebrew media reports. This groundbreaking move marks a new chapter in addressing the long-term future of Gaza’s population amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian concerns.

The initiative is being coordinated by the Israeli military’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), led by Maj. Gen. Ghassan Alian. If deemed successful, the responsibility for the program will shift to Israel’s newly established Migration Directorate, part of a broader strategic vision led by Defense Minister Israel Katz.

While international law guarantees the right of return for those leaving Gaza to work, the pilot’s broader goal is to create sustainable migration pathways for thousands of Gazans. Discussions with Indonesia despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties were necessary to make this initiative possible. Quiet coordination between the two nations has opened a new channel for cooperation.

The program represents a shift in how Israel manages Gaza’s population and security. According to Katz, the Migration Directorate will oversee “safe and controlled passage of Gaza residents for their voluntary departure,” including all logistical and infrastructural aspects, such as screening, border transit, and international coordination by land, air, or sea.

Katz emphasized the alignment of the program with both international law and former U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision for the region. “We will allow any Gaza resident who wants to move to a third state to do so,” Katz said.

In practice, the process involves security screening by Shin Bet at Kerem Shalom, followed by transit through points such as the Rafah border crossing, the Allenby Bridge, or Ramon Airport. Participants are informed that re-entry into Gaza cannot be guaranteed due to the ongoing war.

Since the beginning of this month, approximately 1,000 Gazans have emigrated voluntarily, with another 600 expected to follow in the coming week. In total, around 35,000 residents have permanently departed since the war began. These include dual citizens, medical patients, and their families, as well as individuals with residency permits abroad.

If this pilot proves successful, it could signal a new era of cooperation between Israel and third-party nations to manage Gaza’s future through voluntary, humane, and practical solutions.

Stay informed about Israel’s strategic developments share this article and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on regional initiatives.