Mixed news from January 2024 jobs report

The Israel Central Bureau of Statistics published its jobs survey for January 2024 today (Monday), revealing a mixed recovery in job numbers compared to December 2024.

The war has taken its toll on Israel's economy, with a large increase in spending to pay for the war and the civilian rear, and a significant number of men and women of working age forced to fight in the reserves. As the war in Gaza shifts to a more pinpoint phase, tens of thousands of soldiers have been released temporarily, possibly helping the numbers below.

Per the ICBS report, unemployment increased by about 10,000 people or 0.3% from December to January. However, the number of those temporarily absent from work for whatever reason and those who gave up on looking for work has decreased significantly - by about 70,000 or 0.9%.