Israeli prisons: what to know about rights, health and visits

If you or a family member is dealing with time inside an Israeli prison, you want clear, usable information — not long legalese. This page gives straight facts about the Israel Prison Service (IPS), inmate rights, health care inside prisons, and simple steps families can take to help.

How the system works and what inmates can expect

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) runs most facilities. Prisons vary: some hold security detainees, others are for civil sentences or pre-trial detention. Each facility has a clinic staffed by a doctor or nurse, but the level of care and waiting times differ. If an inmate has a chronic condition (diabetes, heart disease, mental health issues), continuity of medication is crucial — so make sure records travel with the case.

Visiting rules change by prison and by security status. Visitors usually need ID and a prior permit; different rules apply for children. Check the specific prison’s visiting schedule and rules before traveling. Bringing food, cash, or medicines often requires prior approval — ask the prison administration or your lawyer first.

Practical rights and steps to get help

Prisoners have legal rights: access to a lawyer, medical care, and a way to file complaints. If medical care is delayed or denied, the first practical step is a written request to the prison medical officer. Keep copies. If that doesn’t work, contact the inmate’s lawyer immediately and consider reaching out to NGOs that handle prison and human rights cases.

Useful NGOs include the Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) and Physicians for Human Rights–Israel (PHRI). They can advise on medical neglect, access to specialist care, and legal steps. Families can also contact the Knesset Committee on Internal Affairs or a prison ombudsman for urgent cases.

For medications: prepare a clear list with brand and generic names, doses, and a copy of the prescription or recent clinic notes. Share that with the lawyer and prison medical staff. If the prison switches or delays a drug, ask for the written medical rationale and record requests and responses. Never send medication without approval — that can cause more problems.

Mental health matters. Isolation, long waits, and uncertainty hit people hard. Request mental health evaluations in writing if you notice changes in mood, sleep, or behavior. Therapy inside prison is limited, but documenting concerns helps build a case for outside care or specialist referrals.

Families: stay organized. Keep copies of ID, court orders, medical records, and a timeline of requests and replies. Appoint one family member to handle calls and paperwork so information doesn’t get lost. Use the lawyer as your main channel for official requests.

This page aims to give clear next steps — get a lawyer, document everything, push for prescribed meds and timely care, and reach out to rights groups if needed. If you want, we can add a short checklist you can print and bring to meetings with lawyers or prison staff.