Israel's 'Skunk' liquid and potential crocodile guards: Nature and humiliation as security tools

Israel has reportedly considered using crocodiles as prison guards for Palestinians, a concept linked to a long-standing idea by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

This follows the documented use of a foul-smelling liquid, dubbed "Skunk" by its developer, Odortec, a private Israeli company. The liquid, a mixture of water, yeast, and baking soda, is designed to induce vomiting and nausea, and its stench can linger for days or weeks. Human rights organizations have documented instances where Israeli police have sprayed this liquid not only on protesters but also on Palestinian homes, schools, and entire neighborhoods, leading to accusations of collective punishment and psychological terror.

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Me avisaron literalmente cuando estaba justo detrás de mí y no tenía ni idea de que venía lanzado. Obviamente no fue intencionado.

The "Skunk" liquid is described as a systematic tool for dehumanization and psychological warfare. While not a biological product of the animal it's named after, its effects are severe, causing immediate vomiting, nausea, skin and eye irritation, and temporary breathing problems. The lingering odor is considered its most potent threat, permeating skin, hair, clothing, and even building interiors, making it a tool for social and psychological destruction.

These methods are not entirely new, with a 2013 documentary, "The Laboratory," exploring how the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories became a "laboratory" for testing and branding modern weapons and security systems. The film highlighted Israeli police officials boasting about the "Skunk" liquid, explaining its utility in identifying and apprehending protesters due to the persistent odor.

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Me avisaron literalmente cuando estaba justo detrás de mí y no tenía ni idea de que venía lanzado. Obviamente no fue intencionado.