The Palestinian Center for Prisoners’ Advocacy expresses deep concern over the continued disappearance of hundreds of Palestinian detainees, particularly from the Gaza Strip, held in Israeli prisons and detention centers under conditions described as opaque, harsh, and in clear violation of international humanitarian law.
The Center highlights that, according to the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel (PCATI), Israeli authorities have acknowledged the detention of 2,790 Palestinian prisoners from Gaza, yet they deliberately obscure the fate of 144 detainees, amid a complete lack of transparency, legal safeguards, or international oversight—raising serious fears of enforced disappearance and torture.
Dr. Mohammad Shaaban, Head of the Palestinian Center for Prisoners’ Advocacy, stated:
“We are continuously receiving testimonies and reports indicating that Palestinian prisoners, particularly from Gaza, are subjected to horrific violations, including physical and psychological torture, isolation from the outside world, and denial of medical care. These practices represent flagrant violations of the Geneva Conventions and international legal standards.”
Shaaban called for the formation of an independent international investigation committee to examine the crimes and serious violations faced by Palestinian prisoners, warning against the continuation of Israel’s policy of impunity.
He demanded the immediate disclosure of the fate of the forcibly disappeared, allowing international human rights organizations and lawyers to visit them, and exerting pressure to halt all forms of torture and degrading treatment.
Shaaban confirmed that the Center has already begun legal and human rights initiatives in coordination with international organizations to raise the issue of Gaza’s detainees on the international stage. He urged the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the International Criminal Court to intervene immediately and open an investigation into these ongoing violations.
He concluded:
“What is happening in Israeli prisons is a stain on the conscience of humanity, and we will not remain silent in the face of these abuses. It is time to end the suffering of Palestinian prisoners and hold those responsible for these violations accountable.”
