Palestinian Deaths in Israeli Custody

A report by Physicians for Human Rights (PHRI) reveals that nearly 100 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023, a significant increase from previous years. The report, consistent with findings from an Associated Press investigation, attributes these deaths to systematic violence and denial of medical care within Israeli prisons and detention centers, including the Sde Teiman military prison. Former guards and nurses have provided testimonies of routine beatings, shackling, and neglect, with some detainees dying from physical assault, brain bleeds, and malnutrition. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, is cited for deliberately worsening prison conditions. While Israel's Prison Service claims to operate lawfully, it has declined to comment on the death count and has been accused of refusing to provide information about hundreds of detained Palestinians. The Israel — Supreme Court of Israel has ordered improvements in food for inmates, but human rights groups argue that serious investigations into alleged violence are rare, fueling the problem. The event underscores grave human rights concerns and potential violations of international law.