Pregnant Gazelle Found Imprisoned in Palestinian Village During Raid

Israeli forces, including Border Police officers and Nature and Parks Authority inspectors, discovered a pregnant gazelle held illegally in a cage during a raid in the village of Idna, near Hebron, in the West Bank. The animal, described as being in advanced pregnancy, showed clear signs of captivity.

Nature and Parks Authority inspectors rescued the gazelle and transported her to the wildlife hospital at the Ramat Gan Safari for veterinary care. Initial examinations indicated her physical condition was stable, with a healthy fetus and normal pregnancy progression, despite the visible signs of mistreatment.

The operation was conducted based on intelligence from the Border Police's Southern District and in cooperation with the Civil Administration's conservation department. The search was part of a broader effort to combat the illegal holding and trading of protected wildlife.

The suspect whose home was searched was arrested and is being questioned by the Nature and Parks Authority on suspicion of poaching, illegal possession, harming, and trading protected natural assets. The investigation is ongoing.