Israeli prisons: Investigation reveals starvation and abuse of Palestinian detainees

An investigative report by Haaretz has detailed systematic abuses against Palestinian detainees within Israeli prisons and military detention centers over the past 18 months. Based on testimonies from five released detainees, the investigation describes conditions including starvation, physical assault, medical neglect, and collective punishment.

Detainees reported losing between 15% and 50% of their body weight due to food shortages. Other reported issues include the spread of skin diseases like scabies, lack of hygiene supplies, and inadequate clothing. The testimonies highlighted abuses at several facilities, including Megiddo, Nafha, Ketziot, Ofer, and Al-Damon prisons, as well as the Huwara military detention center. The report also noted the involvement of the Israel Prison Service's 'Keter' unit in violent incidents.

As of last September, approximately 9,329 Palestinians were classified as 'security prisoners' in Israeli custody. The investigation found that only 16% of these individuals had been convicted in court, while the remainder were held under administrative detention without formal charges or classified as 'unlawful combatants.' Despite Israeli Supreme Court rulings aimed at improving nutrition and allowing Red Cross visits, the report suggests these measures have not significantly altered the living conditions for many detainees.