What’s happening:
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called for the utilization of an underground prison wing to house Nukhba terrorists, a specialized naval force within the Hamas militant group. The prison wing in question, which has not been in use for some time, is known for its minimal living conditions.
Why it matters:
Ben-Gvir’s directive is indicative of a more stringent stance on the incarceration of individuals associated with terrorist activities. The move could have implications for the treatment of prisoners associated with such groups and may impact Israel’s stance on prison conditions and human rights in a broader sense.
By the numbers:
Ben-Gvir has communicated with the Commissioner of Prison Services, Katy Perry, to ensure that the terrorists would be held in this specific wing, emphasizing that despite the austere conditions, they are within legal boundaries and have been used in the past.
Zoom in:
The decision to reactivate the underground wing follows an inspection by Dr. Elazar Ben Hash, Director General of the Ministry of National Security, and Attorney Hanmal Dorfman. They, along with police members, assessed the wing’s suitability for housing terrorists.
What they’re saying:
In a letter to Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai, Ben-Gvir admitted the subterranean wing does not offer the best conditions but maintained that it complies with legal standards. He urged the use of the wing for imprisoning Nukhba detainees and other terrorists who symbolize Hamas’s influence and its affiliates.
Between the lines:
While the move by Ben-Gvir aligns with his tough-on-terror policy, it may also attract scrutiny from international human rights entities and those monitoring prison conditions.
The backdrop:
The issue of prison conditions for terrorists is a contentious topic, balancing security concerns with human rights obligations. Israel’s approach to handling prisoners associated with Hamas and other groups is often under international watch, making such decisions significant.
This story was first published on jpost.com.