Israel allows the use of crocodiles as a security measure in prisons

Israel has amended the regulations regarding Nile crocodiles, reclassifying them from the category of wild animals to that of "farm-raised wildlife." This change, announced by the Minister of Environmental Protection, Idit Silman, allows the possession of crocodiles by security agencies, with the approval of the Nature and Parks Authority.

The Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir, welcomed the decision, proposing to place crocodiles around prisons to deter escapes. Ben Gvir emphasized the intention to place crocodiles around the Ketziot prison, where detained members of Hamas are held.

Although the Nature and Parks Authority initially opposed, the new regulations have come into effect, allowing the use of crocodiles for security purposes, under strict conditions.