It is true!

Why isn't this getting more attention from the press?

today it was announced that Palestinians will be allowed work permits, in a huge reversal of policy after 20 years of legal limbo. Those born in the country and registered with the Interior Ministry will be allowed to take clerical and manual jobs. This isn't much, it's akin to guest workers everywhere, but it's a huge step towards the enfranchisement of a largely destitute population, despite reminders that they will be banned from professional work... Hopefully that will be a victim of the rising tide. There are approximately 360,000 eligible Palestinians who will benefit from this decision.

I hate to be cynical, but I have to ask, does this have anything to do with the recent departure of around 1m Syrians from the country following the pullout? Syrians had flocked to the country for a long time, seeking employment and higher wages then they might find back home. Following the February/March protests and accusations of Syrian involvement in the death of Rafiq Hariri, these Syrian workers were often harassed and attacked. They fled the country in the wake of the hastily withdrawing military.

anyone ever seen A Day Without A Mexican? It's the tale of California when suddenly the Mexicans disappear. People just can't get anything done without their menial labor supply. I'd like to suggest the same thing is at work here. In a drought caused by the disappearance of cheap Syrian labor, it seems reasonable to turn to that other section of the populace desperate for work...

the decision was made by outgoing Labor Minister Tarad Hamdeh. For a lame duck to make such a monumental policy shift like this the situation must really be rough. I'm sure the tipping point was probably when his gardener failed to show up.

daily star has full coverage.

here's my original post with the SANA report. (french)