No. Butterfly knives (balisongs) are classified as prohibited weapons under Israel’s Firearms Law (1979) and the Dangerous Weapons Order (2023), rendering their possession, sale, or import illegal without special authorization from the Israel Police. Recent 2026 amendments to the Firearms Ordinance further clarify that folding knives with automatic or assisted-opening mechanisms—including balisongs—are treated as restricted implements, subject to confiscation and criminal penalties. Travelers carrying such knives risk immediate detention or prosecution under Section 21 of the Law.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Israel
- Prohibition under Firearms Law (1979): Balisongs are deemed “dangerous weapons” under Section 18, requiring prior approval from the Israel Police for possession, which is rarely granted.
- Dangerous Weapons Order (2023): The 2023 amendment explicitly lists balisongs as prohibited, aligning with broader restrictions on folding knives with spring-assisted or quick-release mechanisms.
- Enforcement by Israel Police: Authorities conduct routine inspections at borders and urban checkpoints, with 2026 directives prioritizing confiscation and potential criminal charges under Section 21 for unauthorized possession.