Israel's Ayalon Prison. Photo: PikiWiki - Israel free image collection project.

JNS.org – The Israel Prison Service (IPS) is considering establishing a wing for the Holyland criminals, in which former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and the six other sentenced individuals would serve their time together, Israel Hayom reported.

In the coming days, the IPS will consult with the Shin Bet security agency to gauge the security required and the risks inherent in keeping prisoners who are privy to state secrets.

Although Olmert will not be entitled to special treatment while he serves his time, the IPS must consider the dangers that may face him as a former prime minister in jail. Having led the country and made decisions that affect the public, being among the general population of prisoners could be particularly risky for Olmert.

“[His position] can place him in the way of danger and provocation during daily contact with the other prisoners, both Arab and Jewish,” said an IPS official on Tuesday, explaining one of the reasons why a separate wing for Holyland prisoners and other prisoners “with whom they could live with in peace, without risking their lives” is being considered.

If the wing is created, it will likely be in a closed prison, such as Ayalon Prison in Ramle or Ela Prison in the south, rather than in an “open prison” where prisoners can freely roam the grounds.