Israel considers using crocodiles as prison security barriers

Israel's Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman has approved a controversial change to the legal status of Nile crocodiles, reclassifying them as "specially managed wild animals."

This regulatory shift potentially paves the way for a proposal, reportedly championed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, to use crocodiles as natural security barriers around prisons. The current regulations previously limited crocodiles to licensed zoos or conservation areas for educational and research purposes only. While the decision does not confirm the immediate placement of crocodiles in prisons or the project's final approval, it removes a significant regulatory hurdle.

“

There is no known professional example of using crocodiles in prisons in modern times, and sufficient scientific and legal infrastructure has not been established for such a decision.

The proposal, which Ben-Gvir allegedly discussed with the Director of the Israel Prison Service in December 2025, could first be implemented at Ketziot Prison in southern Israel, which primarily holds Palestinians classified by Israel as "security prisoners." Prison Service officials reportedly visited a crocodile farm in northern Israel in January 2026 to assess the plan's feasibility, gathering information on crocodile care, transportation, and control.

“

The Prison Service's experience with canine units does not mean they have sufficient expertise in the care of dangerous wild animals.

However, Silman's decision was reportedly made despite objections from her ministry's legal advisor and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. The legal advisor, Neta Drori, stated that there is no known professional precedent for using crocodiles in prisons in modern times and that sufficient scientific and legal infrastructure has not been established. Drori also emphasized that the Prison Service's experience with canine units does not equate to expertise in managing dangerous wild animals.

Legal experts argue that such a plan requires legislation from the Knesset, not just an administrative decision. Critics suggest the proposal is a political stunt rather than a solution to genuine issues within the prison system. Former Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy commented that a widespread problem of prisoner escapes does not exist in Israel, with the primary issue being a shortage of cells. Israeli journalist Josh Breiner characterized the crocodile plan as an example of the "level of populism" Ben-Gvir employs.

“

Karma is a bitch.