Israel Returns to Full Productivity After Holiday Period

Following three weeks of holidays and partial workdays, Israel's economy is returning to full operational capacity. Professionals across various sectors shared their experiences during the recent busy period and their outlook for the upcoming work season.

Talia Shenbel, principal of the new Amit Arts High School in Sderot, described the return to routine as particularly exciting this year. She emphasized the school's role in building culture, language, traditions, and community, aiming to foster growth for students and staff, especially in the context of the city's resilience. Shenbel highlighted the importance of empowering students and drawing strength from their engagement with art and learning.

He described the period as very busy, requiring increased staffing. Herman mentioned that while many travelers know what they want, others seek recommendations for unique products. He is now looking forward to a company vacation in Athens after the holidays, followed by two months of reserve duty.

Yakir Yitzhak, a Border Police Sergeant Major in the northern region, explained that his work intensifies during holidays when others are on vacation. His primary goal is to provide security against both terrorism and criminal activity, particularly focusing on agricultural crime and potential security threats in the Jezreel Valley. Yitzhak recounted a recent incident where his team recovered stolen electric bicycles for a resident, restoring the individual's sense of security.

Elad Noeh from the Central Elections Committee stated that the period leading up to elections is characterized by a growing workload, even during holidays. He manages the committee's control center, which monitors nationwide activity and facilitates real-time decision-making. Noeh mentioned that he didn't even have time to build a Sukkah this year due to the demands of his job, and the pace is only expected to increase as election day approaches.

Hairdresser Avi Shoshan described the High Holy Days period as particularly challenging due to the ongoing war, with his salon operating at full capacity from morning to night. He performed thousands of hair coloring treatments, hundreds of straightening and highlighting services, and numerous hair extensions. Shoshan is now looking forward to a short vacation before Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

Guy Alfasi, a security team leader at the Airports Authority, reported handling immense passenger volumes during the summer and holiday periods, with daily numbers exceeding 100,000 travelers, returning to pre-war levels. He noted the dedication of staff, many of whom also perform reserve duty, to ensure smooth operations. While passenger numbers have slightly decreased to 80-85,000 daily, Alfasi finds the current pace more manageable, allowing for brief breaks, though he is not planning a vacation himself.