African asylum-seekers recruited by Israel military for Gaza war lament over ‘unfulfilled permanent residency promises’
Joseph Irikefe
African asylum-seekers recruited by the Israeli Military to support its Gaza war efforts are raising concerns over unfulfilled promises of permanent residency.
According to refugee advocacy groups, there is growing skepticism about the delivery of what was offered.
France24 reported on Sunday that the government has been recruiting African asylum-seekers for the war in Gaza in exchange for permanent residency.
Military sources, speaking to Israel’s Haaretz, confirmed that recruitment was organised “with legal guidance from defense establishment advisers,” though the exact role of these recruits remains unclear.
Approximately 30,000 asylum-seekers, mostly from Sudan and Eritrea, reside in Israel. Fewer than 1 per cent of asylum claims are approved, said Shira Abbo, director of public policy at Hotline for Refugees and Migrants.
Abbo added, “For many, their requests are not denied but pending for five, 10 years or more, leaving them in legal limbo.”
The October 7 attacks by Hamas led to a surge of volunteerism among asylum-seekers, eager to secure their legal status.
According to Haaretz, military officials capitalised on this willingness.
One asylum-seeker, identified as “A,” shared his experience with Haaretz: “They told me they were looking for special people to join the army… This was a life-or-death war for Israel.”
He eventually withdrew from the programme before training began.
The recruitment of asylum-seekers has drawn criticism. Julia Grignon, professor of international humanitarian law, stated, “Asylum status is granted due to persecution, not as part of a deal.”
Abbo also expressed concerns: “The little information we have is alarming… Rights should come before obligations.”
Despite the controversy, the Israeli defense establishment insists its actions comply with the law.
However, doubts remain about whether the promised residency will be granted. Grignon concluded, “A UN body may call out Israel’s violation of international law, but that’s about it.”