By Zaina Aman
The Al Mezan Center for Human Rights has called for the closure of Israeli detention centers, citing severe allegations of torture against Palestinian detainees. Recent testimonies and evidence from these facilities reportedly reveal abuse comparable to that documented in Guantanamo Bay and Abu Ghraib.
According to Al Mezan, Palestinian detainees are subjected to extreme physical and psychological torture. The reported abuses include being hung in stress positions, beaten with hammers, having nails pulled out, attacked by dogs, and assaulted with fists, feet, and rifle butts. Detainees also face exposure to harsh conditions such as standing naked on sharp gravel under the scorching sun, verbal abuse, threats of rape and death, and severe deprivation of food, water, and sanitation.
The rights group has documented several deaths resulting from torture, although a comprehensive count remains unavailable. The Palestinian Prisoners Club has identified 22 individuals who have died due to torture or medical neglect since October 7. Additionally, Israeli rights group B’Tselem reports that at least 60 Palestinians, including 48 from Gaza, have died in detention since the onset of the current conflict.
Al Mezan estimates that approximately 2,650 Palestinians from Gaza are currently held by Israel, including 12 children and two women. Of these, around 300 are undergoing trials, while 2,350 are classified as “unlawful combatants,” lacking clear charges or defined detention periods. The group’s call for accountability highlights the severe conditions faced by detainees and seeks international attention to address these abuses.
