**Red Cross Visits to Israeli Prisoners to Resume After Six‑Month Pause**
*Israel – The Israeli security establishment has announced that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) will resume visits to security prisoners in Israeli prisons, the first such visits since the outbreak of hostilities on 7 October. The visits are expected to begin as early as Wednesday, according to a Channel 12 News report.*
The decision follows a directive from the Israeli High Court of Justice that permits the ICRC to conduct visits to “Nukhba” terrorists—high‑ranking members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and other militant groups—who are held in Israeli detention facilities. The directive marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to prisoner treatment and international oversight.
**National Security Minister Criticizes Court Directive**
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir publicly criticized the High Court’s ruling. In a statement, Ben Gvir said the directive “constitutes a direct blow to the State of Israel’s security deterrence.” He argued that the conditions of security prisoners have contributed to a decline in terrorist attacks, citing a 75 % reduction in attacks according to Shin Bet intelligence. Ben Gvir added that the High Court “consistently serves as an address for appeals by the enemy.”
**Context**
The resumption of Red Cross visits follows a six‑month pause that began after the escalation of violence on 7 October. The ICRC has previously visited Israeli prisons, but the visits were suspended amid security concerns. The High Court’s directive is part of a broader debate over the treatment of prisoners and the balance between security and humanitarian obligations.
**Sources**
– Channel 12 News report on the resumption of Red Cross visits
– Statements by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir
– High Court of Justice directive permitting visits to security prisoners
*This article is based on verified statements and reports. No unverified claims have been included.*
Article and image source: israelnationalnews.com
