Israeli Detained in Belarus for Two Months Over Prescription Pills
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
An Israeli man has been detained in Belarus for two months since August after prescription pills intended for his parents were found in his possession. His family insists the medication was declared on the packaging and he was unaware of the need for further declaration. After an initial confiscation and release, he was arrested weeks later. The family has contacted the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is providing consular support and maintaining contact with the family.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- An Israeli man has been detained in Belarus for two months since August over prescription pills.
- His family claims the medication was for his parents and properly labeled.
- He was initially questioned and released, but arrested again two weeks later.
- His five-year-old son is reportedly asking about his father's whereabouts.
- The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance and communicating with the family.
An Israeli man, approximately 50 years old, has been detained in Belarus for two months since August, after prescription pills were found in his possession. His family states the medication was intended for his parents, who reside in Minsk. His sister, Alex, told N12 that the man's five-year-old son has been waiting for his father's return for two months and is asking about him. The family is concerned and has provided all necessary documents, including those detailing the man's complex mental state, but feels they are not being taken seriously.
According to Alex, the pills were packaged in a "Kupat Holim" (health fund) bag with labels indicating the medication, the prescribing doctor, and the patient. She explained the pills were for her parents and that her brother did not conceal them but was unaware he needed to declare them. The arrest did not occur immediately; in early August, the man arrived at Minsk airport with his family. After inspection, they were stopped at customs and questioned about carrying medication. The pills were confiscated, and he was released after a few hours of questioning.
Approximately two weeks later, while staying at a resort with his family and parents, authorities arrived, searched the premises, and arrested him. Alex expressed surprise, stating they believed the matter was resolved with the confiscation and were shocked to discover he was being accused of trafficking. His parents, aged 75, are reportedly in a state of anxiety and helplessness, and must travel weekly to the detention center to bring him supplies.
The family has contacted the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Alex was informed that the ministry cannot intervene in criminal cases but can offer humanitarian assistance. She questioned the difference between her brother's situation and that of Naama Issachar, an Israeli released from Russian prison in 2019, which was also a criminal case. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Israel's embassy in Minsk and the Department for Israelis Abroad are working with local authorities for consular visits and are in contact with the family.
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