Tel Yinon Dradik’s Health Critically Worsens After 29-Day Hunger Strike in West Bank Detention

Tel Yinon Dradik, who has been on a hunger strike for 29 days protesting an administrative detention order against him, is in critical condition. His lawyer reported that Dradik’s pulse dropped to 42 beats per minute and his body temperature fell to 34 degrees Celsius, indicating a life-threatening state. He also suffers from liver dysfunction, weakness, dizziness, and repeated fainting. A medical specialist appointed by his family is scheduled to examine him at the detention center.

The administrative detention order was issued by Central Command Chief Aviv Blot, but Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed its cancellation last week following a Judea and Samaria appeals committee ruling that deemed the order unenforceable. Despite this, Blot and the prosecution filed an appeal with the Jerusalem District Court against the committee’s decision and Katz’s directive.

The legal appeal has drawn criticism from the Honenu organization, which accused the military commander of undermining elected officials and Israeli democracy. Several rabbis, Knesset members, and public figures have condemned the use of administrative detention against settlers. Rabbi Uri Sherki called for Dradik’s release, stating that if he is suspected of crimes, he should be tried in court, and that continuing his detention is immoral and discriminatory against West Bank settlers compared to other Israeli citizens.

The case highlights ongoing tensions over administrative detention policies in the West Bank and the clash between military authorities and civilian government decisions. Dradik’s deteriorating health adds urgency to calls for his release or proper legal proceedings.