Haaretz Report Unveils Israel’s Pursuit of Palestinian Bedouins in 1948 Territories
Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- Since the Gaza genocide began on October 7, 2023, Israel’s Shin Bet has expanded surveillance and interrogation of Palestinian citizens, especially Bedouins in the occupied Negev, according to a Haaretz investigation.
Bedouin residents say they now fear social media activity or expressing sympathy for Gaza could bring interrogation. Many describe the region as an “open interrogation room.”
Shin Bet agents reportedly target teenagers, threaten families, and attempt to recruit informants. One teen, accused of terrorism for gaming online with a Gazan, was strip-searched with his father in a secret facility. His mother said he hasn’t been the same since.
At least 20 residents told Haaretz they or someone they know faced questioning over online posts or private messages. A political activist said, “Speech itself is banned. We’re living under a thought police.”
Older adults and women are also targeted. Some lawyers avoid defending interrogated individuals out of fear.
Critics say this crackdown is part of Israel’s broader plan to Judaize the Negev by demolishing what Israeli authorities call “unrecognized” Bedouin villages and silencing dissent. Human rights groups warn Israel uses psychological pressure and isolation to dismantle resistance and control communities.
A Bedouin businessman told Haaretz: “One post about Gaza and you can disappear. There’s no democracy here—just fear.”
