Is Kratom Legal in Israel After the 2026 Regulatory Updates?

No. Kratom is classified as a controlled substance in Israel under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (1973), prohibiting its possession, sale, or use without authorization. The Israel Anti-Drug Authority (IADA) and Ministry of Health enforce these restrictions, aligning with global narcotics scheduling trends. Recent 2026 amendments expanded the ordinance to explicitly include mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, kratom’s primary alkaloids, tightening compliance oversight.

Key Regulations for Kratom in Israel

  • Prohibition Under Narcotics Law: Kratom and its alkaloids are listed as Schedule I substances, equivalent to heroin or cocaine, with penalties up to 20 years imprisonment for trafficking.
  • Enforcement by IADA: The Israel Anti-Drug Authority conducts routine inspections of online vendors and physical stores, seizing unlicensed kratom products under the ordinance’s broad narcotics provisions.
  • Medical Exemptions: Strictly limited to licensed pharmaceutical research; no prescriptions or over-the-counter sales are permitted, as the Ministry of Health has not approved any kratom-based medications.

Imports require prior approval from the Ministry of Health’s Medical Cannabis and Controlled Substances Unit, which rarely grants exceptions. Travelers carrying kratom face confiscation and potential prosecution, as border control agencies enforce the ordinance uniformly. The 2026 updates reflect Israel’s alignment with international drug control conventions, prioritizing public health over traditional or alternative medicine exemptions.