The U.N. human rights office released a report detailing allegations of torture and mistreatment faced by Palestinians detained by Israeli authorities since the Oct. 7 attacks. The report highlighted disturbing practices such as waterboarding, sleep deprivation, electric shocks, and the release of dogs on detainees. It stated that over 9,400 'security detainees' were held by Israel's prison service as of June, with some being held in secret without access to legal representation.
The report, based on interviews with former detainees and other sources, raised concerns about arbitrary detention and violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Türk condemned the reported acts as flagrant violations of human rights standards.
The findings in the report could potentially be used by International Criminal Court prosecutors investigating crimes related to the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas and Israel's military campaign in Gaza. The report authors confirmed sharing its contents with the Israeli government, though there was no immediate response from Israeli authorities.
The report also highlighted the lack of information provided by Israel regarding the fate or whereabouts of many detainees, with the International Committee of the Red Cross being denied access to their facilities. Detainees described inhumane conditions, including being held in cage-like facilities, stripped naked, blindfolded, deprived of basic necessities, and subjected to various forms of abuse.
In addition to the allegations against Israeli authorities, the report mentioned arbitrary detention and mistreatment carried out by the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. It noted ongoing concerns about suppression of criticism and political opposition through such practices.
The report also referenced a recent incident where eight out of nine Israeli soldiers were detained over allegations of sexual abuse of a Palestinian at a facility in Sde Teiman. The soldiers' detention sparked protests demanding their release.
The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas' attack on southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. The war has led to widespread destruction in Gaza, with a large number of civilian casualties reported. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing military operations and humanitarian concerns.
