Israeli regulation allows captive breeding of Nile crocodiles for security use

Israeli Minister of Environmental Protection Idit Silman has reclassified Nile crocodiles from wildlife to captive-bred species. This regulatory change allows security agencies to keep these animals in captivity, provided they meet specific conditions set by the Nature and Parks Authority and the Minister's approval. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir supports the measure, having previously suggested using crocodiles to prevent escapes at prisons such as Ketziot in southern Israel. The Ketziot prison currently houses numerous Hamas members detained following the October 7, 2023 attacks. Reports from Israel's Channel 13 indicate that the Nature and Parks Authority initially opposed the plan. While supporters argue this will enhance security, the official mandate requires strict oversight regarding housing conditions. The initiative remains a subject of public and political debate concerning its feasibility and ethics.