Israeli Parliament Rejects Bill Banning Red Cross Visits to Nukhba Terrorist Prisoners

The Israeli Knesset rejected in its first reading a proposed law that aimed to prohibit International Red Cross representatives from visiting prisons and detention facilities holding Nukhba terrorists. The bill, introduced by MKs Galit Distel Atbaryan, Keti Shitrit, and others, failed with 36 votes in favor and 41 against, leading to its removal from the agenda.

The legislation sought to amend prison regulations to forbid Red Cross access to these facilities and restrict information sharing about prisoners without approval from the National Security Minister or Defense Minister, citing security concerns. The bill's defeat occurred amid ongoing coalition tensions, particularly with the Shas party, which signaled it would withhold support until progress was made on legislation it prioritizes.

Coalition chairman Ofir Katz urged all parties to back the bill, warning that failure to pass it would allow Nukhba terrorists continued support from the Red Cross, which had previously been accused of aiding them by smuggling goods and undermining Israel's legitimacy. The bill was prompted by a recent Supreme Court ruling that the government cannot block Red Cross visits to security prisoners without explicit legal authorization.

The coalition sought to codify the ban in law, arguing the Red Cross had not acted similarly for Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The bill's explanatory notes emphasized the security risks posed by allowing external actors into prisons holding illegal combatants. Despite the coalition's efforts, internal political disputes, especially with Shas, led to the bill's failure in the Knesset vote.