The Palestinian Center for Prisoners Advocacy has stated that the current month of Ramadan is among the most difficult and severe periods experienced by the Palestinian prisoners in more than forty years, amid an escalation of repressive measures and violations carried out by Israeli prison authorities against detainees.
The Center affirmed that prisoners are facing unprecedented conditions during this holy month. They are deprived of regular pre-dawn (suhoor) meals, while iftar meals are repeatedly delayed for long hours beyond their scheduled time. This significantly exacerbates the suffering of fasting prisoners and negatively impacts their physical health.
The Center further reported that prison authorities are imposing strict restrictions on the practice of religious rituals. Collective prayers, including Taraweeh prayers, are being prohibited in many sections, and access to copies of the Qur’an is being restricted. These measures constitute a clear violation of freedom of religion within detention facilities.
It also highlighted that the suffering of sick prisoners intensifies during Ramadan due to medical neglect, shortages of essential medication, and inadequate nutrition. These conditions place their lives at serious risk, particularly given the already dire health environment inside prisons.
Additionally, the Center noted that the transfer of prisoners in “bosta” vehicles during Ramadan further compounds their hardship. Detainees are subjected to prolonged hours in harsh and degrading conditions, with no consideration for fasting or their health status.
The Center emphasized that the suffering extends beyond the prisoners themselves to their families, who endure Ramadan under conditions of anxiety and deprivation due to the suspension of visits and communication. This deepens the humanitarian impact of continued detention.
The Palestinian Center for Prisoners Advocacy stressed that the conditions faced by prisoners during Ramadan constitute a grave violation of human rights and freedom of worship. It called on the international community and human rights organizations to assume their responsibilities and exert pressure to end these ongoing violations against Palestinian prisoners.
