DNA testing
What the Law Actually SaysThe confusion stems from Israel's Genetic Information Law (2000), which regulates genetic testing to protect privacy and prevent misuse of genetic data. The law doesn't prohibit DNA tests outright but imposes strict regulations, especially on tests that determine familial relationships. For example, paternity tests in Israel can only be conducted with a court order. "A genetic test for family ties [...] will not be conducted except by order of a family court," the law states (we translated it from Hebrew). This is part of a broader framework designed to protect individuals from having their genetic information used without proper oversight.
Further confirmation that genetic testing is not outright illegal in Israel, but regulated for specific medical and preventive purposes, can be found on Israel's Ministry of Health website. A section titled "Recommendations for Genetic Testing" outlines guidelines for screening tests aimed at identifying couples at risk of passing severe genetic conditions on to their children.
DNA testing
