Israeli Ministers Visit Crocodile Pits Dug Around Ktziot Prison Amid Legal Battle

In recent weeks, crocodile pits have been excavated around the section of Ktziot Prison where Palestinian terrorists are held. However, a court injunction currently prohibits bringing crocodiles to the site, following a petition by the animal rights group Let the Animals Live. On Tuesday, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman toured the newly dug pits.

Minister Silman, who is advancing the designation of Nile crocodiles as a "protected wild species," stated during the visit that the crocodiles symbolize sovereignty and law enforcement at the prison. She said, "The terrorists should know that those who harm our people will end up sleeping surrounded by crocodiles." Ben-Gvir expressed frustration with the court injunction, saying it impedes their efforts and claimed that the terrorists fear such measures. He added that if attacks occur, the death penalty should be enforced.

Meanwhile, Let the Animals Live urgently contacted the Jerusalem District Attorney and the Nature and Parks Authority, demanding clarification that any steps to advance the crocodile project violate the court's interim order. The group's lawyers emphasized that the injunction forbids even preparatory actions for transferring crocodiles and requested an immediate response to protect their legal rights.

The dispute highlights tensions between government officials seeking to use crocodiles as a deterrent around the prison and animal rights advocates insisting on legal compliance and animal welfare. The court's injunction remains in effect, preventing the crocodiles' arrival for now, while the government continues to push the initiative amid ongoing legal challenges.