No, incestuous relationships, including dating siblings, are criminalized under Israeli law. The Penal Code (Sections 351–352) prohibits sexual relations between close relatives, with penalties up to 5 years imprisonment. The Supreme Court has upheld these provisions, rejecting constitutional challenges based on privacy rights.
Key Regulations for Dating Siblings in Israel
- Penal Code Prohibition: Sections 351–352 explicitly criminalize sexual relations between siblings, with no distinction between full or half-siblings. Violations carry imprisonment up to 5 years for offenders over 18.
- Age and Consent Exclusions: Even if both parties consent, the law does not recognize exceptions for adult siblings. The 2023 amendment to the Penal Code removed prior judicial discretion, closing loopholes for “consensual” relationships.
- Enforcement by Police and Courts: The Israel Police Family Violence Unit prioritizes investigations under these sections, particularly in cases involving minors or coercion. Courts apply mandatory sentencing guidelines for convicted offenders.
The Ministry of Justice’s 2026 compliance directives reinforce strict adherence to these statutes, mandating training for law enforcement on familial abuse indicators. Civil courts also recognize these prohibitions in family law proceedings, such as custody disputes.