Supporters opposite the Russian Compound on Tisha B’Av; Free use
Monday, August 3, 2026, 8:34 Tal Yinon Dardik has been on a hunger strike for 29 days, since his detention under an administrative order signed by Central Command Chief Major-General Avi Bluth. Later this morning, a specialist doctor will examine him on behalf of his family to assess his deteriorating medical condition. The visit to the detention facility was coordinated and approved by the Israel Prison Service.
Dardik is in a life-threatening condition with an extremely low heart rate. Yesterday, at the facility clinic, his pulse was recorded at 42 beats per minute and his body temperature at only 34°C (93°F). He is also suffering from impaired liver function, severe weakness, dizziness, and recurring fainting spells.
Approximately one week ago, Defense Minister Yisrael Katz ordered the administrative order against Dardik canceled, following a decision by the Yehuda and Shomron Appeals Committee that the order was not applicable. Contrary to Minister Katz’s position, Major-General Bluth and the Attorney General’s office appealed the decision to the Jerusalem District Court. Honenu strongly criticized the appeal: “Major-General Bluth has chosen to fight the elected echelon. Not only are rights being trampled, but Israeli democracy and the proper governmental order are being undermined. We call on Minister Katz to exercise his authority and not allow bureaucrats to run the country.”
A number of rabbis, Knesset members, and public figures have spoken out in defense of Dardik and criticized the use of administrative orders against residents of Yehuda and Shomron. Yesterday, Rabbi Uri Sherki called for his release: “If Tal Yinon Dardik is suspected of criminal offenses, then put him on trial. In any case, continuing his detention is immoral and constitutes blatant discrimination against the residents of Yehuda and Shomron. This would not happen with any other Israeli citizen. This reeks of persecution, and immediate action must be taken to release him.”