MKs vote to advance bill banning use of ‘skunk’ spray at protesters

Lawmakers on the Knesset National Security Committee vote to advance a bill banning the use of  “skunk” spray on protesters to the second and third readings needed to pass it into law.

The legislation, sponsored by United Torah Judaism MKs Moshe Gafni and Yaakov Asher, is intended to ensure that police water cannons used to disperse demonstrations will only fire clean water without the addition of any substance, including color and odor.

Sprayed out of a high-pressure water cannon truck, the putrid liquid is often used on Haredi anti-draft demonstrators and Palestinians in the West Bank, but has also been rolled out against anti-government protesters in recent years.

The makeup of the substance is shrouded in mystery and relevant authorities have declined to disclose its exact ingredients. Some of those who have been sprayed with the substance reported skin irritation, shortness of breath and headaches.

The bill, which is supported by both coalition and opposition lawmakers, stipulates that police take video of the use of such cannons and save it for three years, providing it upon request to anyone who claims to have been injured — although law enforcement would be allowed to request a court order to withhold such documentation if its release would harm an ongoing investigation or public safety.

Hadash-Ta’al MK Ahmad Tibi celebrates its advancement, calling it “an important bill for both citizens and police officers,” while committee chairman Zvika Fogel (Otzma Yehudit) states that “we are going to limit the extent of police force, but I ask that the spirit of the police does not falter. Where necessary, I strengthen the police, and where necessary, I ensure that the use of force is carried out within a framework of clear tools.”