UN reports “thousands” of arrests in Gaza and denounces mistreatment of detainees

Detentions “in generally horrible conditions”. Of the “thousands” men have been arrested by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war against Hamas, the UN said on Friday, January 19, citing ill-treatment that could amount to torture. In response, the Israeli military reiterated that “detained persons are treated in accordance with international law”.

Some “described being beaten, humiliated, subjected to ill-treatment and what could amount to torture”all in unknown locations and for periods ranging from 30 to 55 days, according to the representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, Ajit Sunghay. “They reported being blindfolded for extended periods, some for several days in a row”underlined the manager. “One man said he only had access to a shower once during his 55 days of detention. There are reports of men who were later released, but only in diapers”he added.

The Israeli army told AFP that individuals suspected of being involved in terrorist activities were being arrested and questioned. “Individuals who do not participate in terrorist activities are released”specified this source, adding that it is often necessary “for suspected terrorists to hand over their clothes so that they can be searched and to ensure that they are not hiding explosive vests or other weapons”. Clothing is returned when possible, the army further specifies.