Gaza Herald_A new report by Physicians for Human Rights–Israel (PHRI) has revealed that at least 98 Palestinians have died inside Israeli detention facilities since October 2023, raising grave concerns about torture, severe abuse, and systemic medical neglect. The organization warns that these practices continued even after last month’s ceasefire, urging the international community to launch an independent investigation.
According to the report, titled “A Death Sentence for Palestinians in Israeli Detention”, 46 detainees died in facilities run by the Israel Prison Service, while 52 others died in military detention centers. All the reported victims were from the Gaza Strip.
PHRI described the death toll as “unprecedented”, stressing that the real number is likely higher due to restricted access and limited transparency inside Israeli-run facilities.
Early medical findings and postmortem testimonies revealed a consistent pattern of extreme abuse, including head injuries, internal bleeding, rib fractures, severe malnutrition, and the denial of life-saving medical care, practices the group says amount to violations of international humanitarian law.
The report concludes with a strong call for an independent, international inquiry to determine the causes of death and ensure accountability for those responsible.
In response, an Israeli military spokesperson said arrests were carried out “in accordance with Israeli and international law,” acknowledging deaths among detainees but attributing some to preexisting illnesses or injuries. The spokesperson added that the military police is examining each case.
The Israel Prison Service also denied all allegations of mistreatment, saying it operates under legal oversight and ensures detainees’ rights, noting recent cooperation with the UN Committee Against Torture.
Human rights organizations and UN experts have repeatedly warned about the deteriorating and dangerous conditions faced by Palestinians in Israeli custody.
