02 Nov 2018 | 08:05 AM UTC
Israel: Labor union threatens indefinite strike beginning Nov. 7
Histadrut union threatens to launch indefinite general strike starting November 7 if the government does not address safety concerns; commercial and transportation disruptions expected
Event
On Thursday, November 1, the chairman of the General Federation of Labor in Israel (Histadrut) announced that the union intends to launch an indefinite strike on Wednesday, November 7, if the government fails to address worker safety concerns. Histadrut hosted an emergency meeting attended by hundreds of work committee and union leaders to discuss safety issues at construction sites throughout the country. According to the Histadrut chairman, workers from both the private and the public sector including government and bank workers, emergency service personnel, and airport employees will participate in the strike. Significant transportation and commercial disruptions are likely if the strike is held.
Context
According to media reports, at least 37 people have died from accidents at construction sites in 2018. Histadrut leaders accused the government and employers of failing to adopt new measures to improve worker safety despite providing recommendations in recent days.
Advice
Individuals in Israel are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate disruptions to transportation and government services and avoid public gatherings as a precaution.
