The Palestinian Center for Prisoners’ Advocacy has called for the formation of an independent international investigation committee to examine cases of death and torture inside Israeli occupation prisons, which have escalated significantly since October 7, 2023.
The Center confirmed that the number of victims of torture and medical neglect during this period has exceeded 90 deaths, amid deliberate cover-ups and the enforced disappearance of thousands of Palestinian detainees.
In a press statement, the Center said:
“What is taking place inside Israeli prisons and detention centers—systematic torture and deliberate medical neglect—constitutes a war crime and a crime against humanity.”
The Center demanded the immediate disclosure of the fate of forcibly disappeared detainees, that they be granted access to their lawyers and families, and that Israeli prisons be opened to international monitoring committees.
Statement by Dr. Mohammad Shaaban
Dr. Mohammad Shaaban, speaking on behalf of the Center, called on the International Committee of the Red Crossand the United Nations to take urgent action and assume their responsibilities in light of the systematic atrocities being committed inside Israeli prisons.
Conditions of Female Prisoners
The Center highlighted the worsening conditions of 36 Palestinian female prisoners currently held in Israeli prisons, including: 1 minor girl, 2 cancer patients, and 2 women in their fifth month of pregnancy
The Center reported that these detainees face daily violations, including harsh conditions, repeated strip searches, and denial of personal hygiene, adequate food, and medical care.
Death of Prisoner Amro Hatem Odeh
In a serious development, the Center reported the death of prisoner Amro Hatem Odeh (33 years old) from Gaza, who died on December 13, 2023 at Sdeh Teyman military camp, only days after being arrested with his family from their home.
The Center described the camp as a “symbol of torture crimes” against detainees from Gaza.
With Odeh’s death, the number of prisoners who have died since the genocide began has risen to at least 70, including 44 from Gaza.
The total number of martyrs of the prisoners’ movement since 1967 has now reached approximately 307.
Systematic Torture Since 1967
The Center emphasized that torture in Israeli prisons is not new but part of a decades-long systematic policy. Documented methods include: stress positions (shabeh), sleep deprivation, exposure to freezing temperatures, beatings, and sexual harassment
These practices violate both the 1984 Convention Against Torture and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The Center concluded by urging the international community and relevant legal institutions to act swiftly to hold Israeli officials accountable for crimes against prisoners and end the policy of impunity that has shielded perpetrators for decades.
