Israel advances controversial plan for 'crocodile prisons' for Palestinian detainees

Israel is reportedly advancing a controversial plan to construct moats filled with crocodiles around detention facilities housing Palestinian prisoners. This initiative, championed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has gained traction following a legal reclassification of crocodiles.

Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman has reclassified crocodiles as "managed wild animals." This new status permits Israeli government bodies, including the Israel Prison Service, to keep these reptiles under specific conditions. Previously, crocodiles were classified as protected wild animals, restricting their housing to licensed zoos or sanctuaries, which presented a significant hurdle to Ben-Gvir's proposal.

The plan, first revealed about six months ago as part of a blueprint for new high-security prisons for Palestinians, involves encircling prison complexes with water channels containing crocodiles. The stated aim is to prevent escape attempts by inmates. Israeli media has dubbed the project the "crocodile prison."

Reports indicate that the Israel Prison Service has begun assessing the operational feasibility of the facility. Prison officials have reportedly visited zoos to study crocodile handling, maintenance, and care requirements as part of an initial viability assessment. Proponents argue that the crocodile moats could not only tighten prison security but also potentially cut operational costs by reducing the need for personnel on external perimeters.

However, the project faces significant financial investment. Israeli media reports suggest that a young crocodile can cost around $8,000 USD, with adult crocodiles potentially costing up to $20,000 USD. The plan had previously stalled due to objections from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, but the new legal classification has apparently removed this obstacle, paving the way for government institutions to maintain crocodiles under state supervision.