Israeli Authorities Kill Crocodiles on West Bank Farm

Israeli authorities have killed over 200 crocodiles on a farm in the occupied West Bank, citing poor conditions and a danger to residents. The farm, located in an Israeli settlement, had become a commercial breeding operation after a decline in tourism.

The farm owner, Gadi Bitan, denounced the slaughter as an "execution," while an Israeli NGO called the act "cruel and unjustified." Authorities claimed the crocodiles were in poor condition, with inadequate access to food, leading to cannibalism.

The Israeli defense agency Cogat stated that the decision was made after discussions with veterinarians, due to the "real danger to the lives of residents in the area." The NGO Let the Animals Live has called for an immediate investigation.

Since 2013, the farm had been closed due to a law prohibiting the breeding of wild animals for their skins. Videos showed teenagers throwing stones at the crocodiles, and some had escaped, causing concern.