Following a Freedom of Information request submitted by ACRI to the police, the police sent the directive regarding the blindfolding of detainees. According to the directive, the default is not to blindfold detainees and is permitted only in extreme situations: during arrests for serious or life-threatening offenses when, despite the use of restraints, the detainee still poses a danger. Even in these cases, the blindfolds may be kept on only for the minimum necessary time. The directive prohibits the use of blindfolding women, minors, and elderly people, except in exceptional cases (in which case a senior officer must approve its use). It also stipulates that any blindfolding on a detainee must be documented, with an explanation of the circumstances and the necessity for its use.
ACRI’s Freedom of Information Request, November 27, 2024 (Heb)
Police response and directive, January 16, 2025 (Heb)
Media Link: Joshua (Josh) Breiner, "New Police Protocol Allows Blindfolding Suspects in 'Extreme Situations'," Haaretz, January 20, 2025