Israeli authorities have detained 18 Thai agricultural workers for allegedly overstaying their work visas, according to official sources. The workers were apprehended during routine inspections in the southern farming region, where they had been employed beyond the permitted duration.
Officials from the Population and Immigration Authority stated that the detentions were part of a broader enforcement effort to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. The workers are currently undergoing legal procedures, and consular representatives from Thailand have been notified.
Israel hosts thousands of foreign agricultural laborers, many of whom come from Southeast Asia under temporary work permits. The government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining lawful employment practices while respecting the rights of foreign workers.
The Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv is coordinating with Israeli authorities to provide consular support and explore possible resolutions for the detained individuals.
