Systematic Torture: B'Tselem's Report on Palestinian Prisoners

A report by Israeli rights group B'Tselem reveals systematic abuse and torture of Palestinian detainees by Israel since the start of the Gaza war. Based on interviews with 55 Palestinians, the report highlights acts of violence, sexual abuse, and degrading treatments. Israel Prison Service denies the allegations.

Israel has engaged in a systematic policy of prisoner abuse and torture since the onset of the Gaza war, subjecting Palestinian detainees to various acts of violence ranging from arbitrary beatings to sexual abuse, according to a report released by Israeli rights group B'Tselem on Monday.

The report, which includes testimonies from 55 Palestinians from Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel, indicates that detainees, most held without trial, faced continuous abuse. This came days after the Israeli military detained nine soldiers accused of severe prisoner abuse in the Negev desert.

A spokesperson for the Israel Prison Service denied these allegations, stating that all prisoners are treated according to the law. However, B'Tselem's findings suggest a deliberate policy implemented under National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, prompting international calls for an inquiry into Israel's treatment of prisoners.

(With inputs from agencies.)