PEOPLE ARE bringing new Apple iPads into Israel. The eternally profit-seeking are buying them in the U.S., sometimes in bulk, and then selling them for a 150% markup in the Jewish state. And some just bring them in to use them. But now Israeli authorities are confiscating them on sight, claiming that the devices’ WiFi signals are too strong and don’t meet Israeli technical standards.

The government argues that Israel’s radio emission regulations are similar to some European countries’ but that the iPad is built to incompatible American standards, which allow for stronger signals and greater coverage.

Right now, it looks like all iPads are being confiscated at the airport. A frustrated Ben Gurion Airport passenger was asked if he was promised he would get his iPads back: “Yes, I was. But I have no hope the promise will be kept.”