Security in Israeli prison: pit with crocodiles is built for wings housing Hamas members
An unusual security measure is underway at Ketziot prison, located in southern Israel, where construction has begun on a 170-meter-long moat. The project, revealed on July 29, 2026, envisages the use of crocodiles as a containment barrier around a wing that houses Palestinian detainees, including members of Hamas. The initiative seeks to reinforce the security of the site, compared to a detention center known as the “Alligator Alcatraz” in Florida, United States.
Project details and high investment
Work inside the facility was confirmed by the Israeli Ministry of National Security last week. Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s office stated that the Prison Service is fully prepared, with a detailed plan that covers everything from the maintenance and care of crocodiles to the creation of resting cells for the animals. To make the construction viable, 7 million dollars were allocated, the equivalent of around 35 million reais.
Controversial reclassification of wild animals
The execution of the project was only possible after a significant change in the classification of the Nile crocodile by the Ministry of Environmental Protection. Once considered a “protected wild animal”, the crocodile was reclassified as a “domesticated wild animal”, a decision made under pressure from Ben-Gvir. This measure generated strong opposition from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.
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Risks and opposition from experts
The Israel Nature and Parks Authority challenged the reclassification, arguing that the measure lacks any professional or scientific basis. The agency warned of the following points of concern:
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- Physical dangers to prison guards and prisoners themselves;
- Introduction of a large, long-lived and non-native predator into the local ecosystem;
- Potential risks to Israel’s natural environment and the general population.
Israeli government justification and context
In defense of the controversial decision, the Minister of Environmental Protection, Idit Silman, stated that the severe overcrowding crisis in the Israeli penitentiary system requires the adoption of deterrent measures such as the use of crocodiles. She emphasized that following the events of October 7, the number of people arrested for security reasons increased significantly, justifying the need to consider such alternatives. The minister explained in a radio interview: “Ultimately, we must remember that, as a result of October 7th, the number of people arrested for security reasons has increased considerably, and there is a real need to consider deterrence measures.”
Proximity to animal relocation and training
The plan states that the Israeli Penitentiary Service will receive the crocodiles from a resort located in the northern part of the territory. After acquisition, the animals will be relocated to an area adjacent to Ketziot Prison, which is the largest prison facility in Israel. In addition to relocation, the project provides specific training for prison officers so that they can deal safely and efficiently with crocodiles.
