Idit Silman reclassifies Nile crocodiles as "specially managed" wild animals to facilitate a new Palestinian detention facility.

Idit Silman, the Israeli Environment Minister, signed a decree reclassifying Nile crocodiles as "specially managed wild animals." This legal shift allows the state to utilize the reptiles for security purposes, specifically to deter prisoners from escaping. The move follows a proposal by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to build a detention facility for Palestinians surrounded by crocodiles, inspired by the "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration center in Florida. While the decision clears the way for the Israel Prison Service to incorporate the reptiles into the penitentiary system, it faced significant pushback from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and various environmental groups. Critics argued that the move lacks a professional basis, noting that crocodiles are sentient beings with complex needs that may be difficult to manage in a prison setting. Despite these concerns and the advice of the ministry's legal adviser, Silman approved the measure to provide a practical security solution. Ben Gvir welcomed the decision, highlighting the crocodiles' potential to serve as effective deterrents for security inmates.

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