Israeli Court Blocks Plan to Use Crocodiles to Guard Prison Holding Hamas Detainees

An Israeli court has temporarily blocked a government proposal to use crocodiles as part of the security system at Ketziot Prison in southern Israel, following legal action by an animal rights organization.

The Jerusalem District Court ordered a temporary suspension of the plan until a full legal review is completed, preventing authorities from relocating any crocodiles to the prison while awaiting the government’s response.

The proposal, backed by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman, sought to introduce crocodiles as an additional security measure around Ketziot Prison, where some Hamas detainees are being held.

Supporters argued the reptiles could serve as a deterrent against escape attempts and strengthen security at one of Israel’s most heavily guarded detention facilities.

However, the plan quickly drew criticism from wildlife experts and animal welfare groups. Israel’s Nature and Parks Authority opposed the proposal, saying there is no scientific evidence to support such a security measure and warning that the Negev Desert lacks the appropriate infrastructure and environmental conditions needed to safely house crocodiles.

Animal rights organization Let the Animals Live filed an emergency petition challenging the plan, arguing it would endanger the animals, threaten the environment and create unnecessary risks to public safety.

Following the court’s decision, Ben-Gvir criticized the ruling, accusing the judiciary of obstructing efforts to improve prison security. He maintained that the government should be allowed to pursue measures aimed at preventing security breaches.

The court’s temporary injunction means the proposal cannot proceed until the judges complete a broader legal review to determine whether it complies with Israeli law and environmental regulations.