This article reports on the experiences of Palestinian detainees who were held in Israeli prisons, particularly Megiddo Prison, following the 7 October 2023 attacks. The detainees, including a 17-year-old boy named Ahmed Abu Seif, describe being subjected to physical and psychological torture, including tear gas attacks, brutal beatings, medical negligence, and emotional abuse.
According to the article, since 7 October 2023, at least 63 Palestinians, including 40 from Gaza, have died in Israeli custody. The Israeli Prison Service (IPS) has not responded to allegations of torture and mistreatment, while the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claims that an investigation is opened into every death of a detainee.
The article also quotes detainees who describe being released in February, only to be subjected to further abuse on their release day. They report being handcuffed, beaten, and threatened with retaliation if they interacted with Hamas or worked with them.
The article highlights the concerns of human rights groups and international bodies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which has not been allowed access to detainees since the 7 October attacks. The ICRC reports that it is “deeply worried” about the wellbeing of detainees and stresses the urgent need to resume visits to every place of detention.
Some key points from the article include:
* At least 63 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody since 7 October 2023.
* Detainees report being subjected to physical and psychological torture, including tear gas attacks, brutal beatings, medical negligence, and emotional abuse.
* The IPS has not responded to allegations of torture and mistreatment.
* Detainees describe being released in February only to be subjected to further abuse on their release day.
* The ICRC is “deeply worried” about the wellbeing of detainees and stresses the urgent need to resume visits to every place of detention.
Overall, the article provides a disturbing account of human rights abuses perpetrated by Israeli authorities against Palestinian detainees.