Israel’s AI checkpoints worsen West Bank dehumanisation

Israel has been discreetly implementing artificial intelligence hardware at West Bank checkpoints, requiring Palestinians with permits to scan their biometric ID cards and faces upon return. The “permit regime” restricts access out of the West Bank to control the Palestinian population under Israeli occupation.

Following recent restrictions, 150,000 Palestinians lost their jobs in Israel, devastating Palestine’s economy. Thousands are now resorting to illegal entry, facing imprisonment. Israel also quietly installed biometric monitoring systems, escalating surveillance and control.

MadEye Technology, owned by Eyal Dafni, designed the facial recognition hardware, collecting biometric data without disclosing usage plans. This violation of Palestinian digital rights has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations, with Amnesty International labeling it a crime of apartheid.

Nadim Nashif, director of 7amleh, warns of increased surveillance risks and violation of digital rights. This move represents Israel’s efforts to enhance security operations by collecting data on Palestinians in the Occupied Territories.

Theia Chatelle, a conflict correspondent, shares her insights on the situation, shedding light on the impact of these technological advancements on Palestinian lives in the region.