Israel Begins Construction of Crocodile Moat at Ketziot Prison to Boost Security

Construction has started on a 180-meter-long crocodile moat around the security wing of Ketziot Prison, where Palestinian terrorists, including those from Nukhba, are held. This initiative, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, aims to enhance the facility's security and deterrence capabilities. The project, dubbed the "Crocodile Prison," is a pilot program marking a unique security measure.

The work commenced shortly after Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman declared the Nile crocodile a "domesticated wild animal," legally enabling the National Security Ministry to hold crocodiles for operational purposes. The ministry allocated a budget of approximately 21 million shekels for the construction of the moat and necessary infrastructure.

Establishing such a system is complex, partly because Israel currently lacks a regulatory framework or pricing for crocodiles, and their trade is highly restricted. Historically, crocodiles were imported for commercial farms in the Jordan Valley and Arava regions. The project carries significant security and safety implications, reflecting a novel approach to prison security in Israel.