Israel is Introducing New Biometric Surveillance Tech on West Bank Border

by Masha Borak | Biometric Update

Israel has been quietly introducing new biometric border technology for Palestinians traveling between the country and the Palestinian territory of the West Bank. Palestinian travelers are now required to scan their faces and their biometric ID cards, according to a report from The New Arab.

While Israel could collect biometric data at checkpoints before, the country started introducing new biometric equipment after imposing large-scale restrictions on Palestinians traveling between Israel and the West Bank for work or other purposes. The restrictions were introduced in the wake of the October 7th, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack on Israeli civilians, which ignited the country’s offensive against Gaza.

In December, Israeli authorities started allowing Palestinian laborers to return to their jobs in Israel. Thousands of Palestinians, however, are currently forced to enter Israel illegally with the risk of punishment of up to six months in prison, according to media reports.

The biometric technology is reportedly provided and installed by Israeli company MadEye, according to The New Arab. Read Full Article >