Security Concerns Mount Over Daily Entry of 2,500 Jordanian Workers to Eilat

Approximately 2,500 Jordanian workers cross the border into Eilat daily for employment in the city's hotels, raising significant security concerns for Israel. These workers, who enter and exit the country each day, are subject to security checks, but questions persist about the thoroughness and consistency of these screenings and whether the system is adequately prepared for potential terror attacks. The daily commute, which begins before the tourist promenade fills up, involves workers from Aqaba crossing into Israel, undergoing checks, and returning to Jordan in the evening.

The "routine" of these daily entries is seen as a potential vulnerability, especially in the current security climate following the October 7th attacks and the ongoing war. While the 1994 peace treaty with Jordan laid the groundwork for cooperation, the current system for employing Jordanian workers in Eilat was formalized by a 2014 government decision, which has since been expanded. The number of workers allowed has increased to 2,500 in the hotel industry, with an additional 450 in other sectors, all requiring Shin Bet approval and immigration permits.

Regulations stipulate that these are strictly daily workers who must leave Israel by the end of the workday, with employers responsible for their transport and ensuring they remain only at their designated workplaces. However, many workers are observed moving freely in tourist areas during their workdays, with their movements not consistently monitored. This raises concerns not only about initial entry checks but also about ongoing monitoring, updated intelligence reviews, and re-evaluation of workers who received permits years ago.

Past incidents, such as a 2018 attack by a Jordanian worker in Eilat who injured two Israelis with a hammer, highlight the potential risks. The worker was reportedly planning the attack for a long time and used his work route to enter Israel. The core security challenge is not whether every worker is dangerous, but the number of protective layers in place to prevent a daily entrant from exploiting their access for a terror attack. In 2024-2025, criminal investigations involving Jordanian workers have also surfaced, including suspicions of sexual offenses.

Following the October 7th attacks, the entry of Jordanian workers was initially halted and then resumed at a reduced capacity. Two workers had their permits revoked due to statements made. By 2024, quotas were gradually being refilled, with workers continuing their daily commutes even amidst rocket fire and drone incidents in Eilat. Hotel industry sources note that the presence of Jordanian workers cleaning rooms while Israeli guests are fleeing attacks can lead to friction. Many workers are motivated by significantly higher wages in Israel compared to Jordan, despite facing potential social criticism in Jordan for working in Israel and being instructed to avoid political expressions or provocations.

Despite these concerns, there is support for expanding Jordanian employment, with the Israeli Ambassador to Jordan noting the high demand and interest from Jordanians. Government ministries are also considering extending employment to the industrial sector. The core question remains how to ensure sufficient security layers between these daily workers and the potential for them to carry out attacks, a response that cannot simply be "trust us."