Israeli minister proposes crocodile moat for Palestinian detainees

Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has proposed constructing a detention facility for Palestinian detainees that would be surrounded by crocodiles, according to a report by Israel's Channel 13. The unusual suggestion, reportedly presented during a meeting with Israel Prison Service Chief Commissioner Kobi Yaakobi last week, is said to be under examination by prison authorities.

Details of the Controversial Proposal

The television report stated that the proposed site is located near the Hamat Gader area in northern Israel, close to the occupied Syrian Golan Heights and the border with Jordan. The area reportedly includes an existing crocodile farm and zoo. Ben-Gvir, who leads the far-right Jewish Power Party, suggested the predatory animals would act as a deterrent to prevent escape attempts by security prisoners.

Context of Hardline Prisoner Legislation

The proposal emerges as the Israeli Knesset is expected to vote in the coming days on a bill, also proposed by Ben-Gvir, that would allow the execution of Palestinian prisoners accused by Israel of planning or participating in attacks. This bill passed its first reading in the Knesset Plenum on November 11 and requires two more readings to become law. The concurrent discussion of extreme detention measures and capital punishment highlights a hardening stance toward Palestinian detainees.

Conditions for Palestinian Prisoners

Israel currently holds more than 9,300 Palestinian prisoners, including women and children. Palestinian and Israeli human rights organizations have consistently reported severe violations against detainees, including torture, medical neglect, and starvation, which have led to numerous deaths. These conditions have reportedly worsened during Israel's war on the Gaza Strip, war that has killed more than 70,900 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured nearly 171,200 others since October 2023.