Israeli defence chief bans Red Cross visits to Palestinian prisoners

On October 29, 2025, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz signed an order prohibiting the International Committee of the Red Cross from visiting Palestinian prisoners, including Hamas members involved in the October 7 attacks.

In his decree, Katz cited information from Israel’s internal security service, Shabak, stating that such visits “could cause serious damage to Israel's security” and underscored that “the security of the state and citizens comes first,” according to Israeli media.

The decision followed intense debate within the Israeli government. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and the leadership of the Prison Service strongly opposed allowing Red Cross access, arguing it would pose security risks.

Meanwhile, the National Security Council and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported a limited form of visitation.

Under pressure from Ben-Gvir and the Prison Service, Katz ultimately sided with their position and issued the ban. Netanyahu had previously removed the matter from the cabinet meeting agenda, acknowledging that he did not have a majority to approve a compromise arrangement.

Prison Service head Kobi Yaacobi had warned that allowing Red Cross visits could present a “security threat,” reinforcing the arguments of those opposing the access.

By Tamilla Hasanova