Israeli Police Investigate Polygamy Cases Involving Multiple Wives and Dozens of Children in Negev

Israeli police in the Southern District have launched investigations into polygamy cases involving residents of the Negev, uncovering complex family arrangements and legal violations. One case involves an 83-year-old man from Rahat suspected of marrying multiple women simultaneously under Islamic law, including five wives who are Palestinian Authority residents staying in Israel without legal permits. The man is reportedly the father of 45 children. His most recent marriage, allegedly in April, was to an Israeli resident woman. He was interrogated on suspicions of polygamy and facilitating illegal residency and released under house arrest conditions.

In a separate case from July, a 40-year-old man from Bir al-Saba was reported to have married two women and planned a third marriage. The third wedding took place on July 30, followed by a honeymoon in Barcelona. Upon returning to Israel on August 15, he was arrested at Ben Gurion Airport. The third wife was detained for questioning, and testimonies were collected from the other two wives living with him. He was also released under restrictive conditions pending further investigation.

The police stated that these investigations are part of a broader effort to combat polygamy and related offenses, which they describe as harmful to women, children, and community fabric. The authorities emphasized their commitment to addressing illegal residency, polygamy, and any associated violence or exploitation, working closely with welfare agencies to support victims. The investigations are ongoing, with cases to be forwarded to the Southern District Prosecutor's Office for potential legal proceedings.