Chinese Construction Workers in Israel: ‘I’d Rather Be Bombed Than Live in Poverty’

Scores of Chinese construction workers in Israel have chosen not to evacuate the country despite the ongoing war, with some saying they would rather face bombs than return to poverty. Since the start of the conflict, the Chinese Embassy has organized evacuations via the Taba Port in Egypt, but many among the estimated 50,000 to 60,000 Chinese workers employed in Israel’s construction industry have opted to stay.

In videos circulating on social media, workers described earning between 30,000 and 80,000 yuan per month — roughly $4,100 to $11,000 — working 12-hour days on construction sites. “I’m working here, everything is normal. If there’s an air raid siren, you take cover. We’re used to it by now,” one worker said. Another stated bluntly from inside a dormitory that he would “rather be bombed to death than die in poverty.”

Workers emphasized that Israeli employers pay wages on time and provide quality medical care. One carpenter said he earns 1,800 yuan per day and plans to stay until he has saved two million yuan. The comments reflect a striking contrast between working conditions in Israel and the limited opportunities many face in China, where youth unemployment and rural poverty remain persistent challenges.

(JPost/VFI News)