Israel DM rejects administrative detention of settler suspected of terrorism

Israeli Defence Minister, Yisrael Katz, has rejected a request by the Shin Bet security service to issue an administrative detention order against a Jewish man suspected of involvement in terrorist attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, Kan 11 reported on Wednesday.

The decision aligns with Katz’s pledge to halt the use of administrative detention against extremist Israeli settlers who carry out attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

Instead of approving the administrative detention order – allowing the settler’s detention without trial – which has been recommended by security agencies, Katz held a meeting in his office with a group of rabbis close to the suspect, asking them to supervise him and ensure he does not engage in further terrorist activities.

The channel noted that the ]minister stated he prefers to use “other tools” to counter Jewish terrorism, expressing hope that this new policy will prove effective on the ground, especially amid the increasing settler attacks and terrorist incidents in the occupied West Bank.

Legal experts have warned that Katz’s decision is unlawful and violates fundamental principles of international and administrative law. They stress that the ruling could be overturned by Israel’s Supreme Court and might trigger additional international arrest warrants targeting Israeli political and security officials, potentially including Katz himself.

Israel uses administrative detention to detain Palestinians for six-month terms which are renewable. Many are held for years under the system and are never charged, tried or told why they have been detained.

According to Addameet Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association, there are currently 3,376 Palestinians being held under the punitive measure, including children.

READ: UN Human Rights office says Israeli law restricting UNRWA should be repealed