Israel to Ban Drones Controlled by Fiber Optics or SIM Cards

Defense Minister Israel Katz is set to sign a special security order on Sunday that will prohibit the operation of drones controlled via fiber optic cables or cellular SIM cards within Israel's airspace. The ban is intended to be a temporary six-month measure to address immediate security threats until more comprehensive solutions are developed. The decision stems from concrete intelligence indicating an increase in threats from hostile actors, including the use of drones for attacks, attempts to harm senior officials, intelligence gathering, and smuggling. Security officials also noted the use of drones by criminals and organized crime families, emphasizing the need to counter this threat both at the borders and within the country's interior. The measure was approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz in the Ministerial Committee on National Security Affairs, following extensive discussions and staff work led by the National Security Council in cooperation with security agencies. This prohibition complements existing measures to mitigate drone threats, such as import restrictions and regulatory oversight. The order specifically targets fiber optic and SIM card-controlled drones, while other types of drones will remain subject to current regulations. Minister Katz will enact the order under his authority granted by the Aviation Law, after consulting with the head of the Civil Aviation Authority and completing a public comment period as required by the Ministry of Justice. The order includes specific exceptions for security forces and their operatives, as well as for SIM card or fiber optic drones that received prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority before the ban takes effect. Additionally, an exceptions committee will be established to review requests for exemptions from the ban under conditions to be defined in the order.