Israeli Defense Minister Katz Orders Not to Renew Administrative Detention Ban on Right-Wing Activist Yinon Dradik

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed not to renew the administrative detention ban against right-wing activist Yinon Dradik, who is accused by the security services of abusing Palestinians. This decision followed a prolonged meeting between Katz and Dradik at the detention facility, which was revealed by Channel 12 news. Katz's office announced the decision amid a security update concerning the West Bank, stating that the military appeals committee accepted an appeal against the ban issued by the Central Command commander based on Shin Bet recommendations, citing procedural flaws in the ban's issuance.

The meeting took place last weekend after a petition by Knesset members calling for Dradik's release and following Dradik's hunger strike. Sources close to Katz said the meeting aimed to ensure Dradik's life was not in danger. During the meeting, Katz offered Dradik an alternative of house arrest at friends' homes, which Dradik declined.

The security establishment responded to the growing media campaign for Dradik's release by revealing serious allegations against him. According to a Shin Bet document, the Central Command commander signed the administrative detention order on the agency's recommendation. The security services allege Dradik was involved in abusing Palestinians, including tying one detainee's genitals to handcuffs. Dradik vehemently denies all accusations.