Allegations Emerge From a Freed Palestinian Detainee
A Palestinian man released after nearly two years in Israeli detention has described what he says are systematic practices of torture, humiliation, and neglect inside facilities run by Israel. Akram al Basyouni, 45, from northern Gaza, said he was detained on 10 December 2023 at a shelter school in Jabalia and spent most of the ensuing period in custody, including at the Sde Teiman military base. His testimony comes amid broader scrutiny of how detainees from Gaza are treated in Israeli facilities.
Eyewitness Accounts Of Harsh Conditions
Speaking to Sky News, al Basyouni alleged that many fellow prisoners were beaten to death and that guards often responded to screams for help with indifference. “When we cried out to the guards for help, they would answer coldly, ‘Let him die’. Five minutes later they would take the body away, wrap it in a bag, and shut the door,” he claimed. He said torture was routine, with beatings using batons and fists, dog attacks, and gas during what guards called a “reception ceremony.”
Al Basyouni described conditions as intentionally brutal: “They beat us so savagely our ribs were shattered. They poured boiling water over the faces and backs of young men until their skin peeled away. We sat on cold metal floors for days, punished even for asking for help.” He added that detainees were made to remain kneeling for long hours, deprived of clothing and blankets, and subjected to religious and psychological abuse.
Religious and Personal Insults Reported
The detainees, according to al Basyouni, were subjected to verbal abuse that included desecration of religious texts and insults aimed at families. “They cursed the Prophet, tore up the Koran in front of us, and insulted our mothers and sisters in the foulest language,” he said. He also recounted threats implying the deaths of family members to break morale. The testimony reflects broader allegations about the treatment of prisoners from Gaza in recent years.
Broader Context And Reactions
A 2024 United Nations report documented ongoing concerns about the arbitrary detention of Palestinians since 7 October 2023, including incommunicado confinement, shackling, and reports of torture, deprivation of food, water, sleep, and medical care. Israel has consistently stated that it adheres to international and domestic legal standards in its treatment of prisoners and that violations by individual personnel are investigated.
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly asserted a stance favoring stringent conditions for Palestinian detainees while maintaining that such measures stay within the law. The current case highlights tensions between official narratives of lawful detention and personal testimonies accusing facilities of acabar cruel practices.
Doctors, Medical Care, And Deaths In Custody
Al Basyouni claimed that some detainees, including medical professionals, died as a result of beatings or medical neglect. He cited accounts of a doctor, identified as Dr Adnan al-Bursh, who allegedly died after an injury sustained during detention. Sky News’ investigation has previously reported on the death of Dr al-Bursh, describing severe injuries sustained in custody. Al Basyouni said he had also heard of other medical professionals, such as Dr Hossam Abu Safiya and Dr Akram Abu Ouda, facing severe torture.
Official Responses And Next Steps
Sky News has sought comment from the Israel Prison Service (IPS) and the Israel Defense Forces, but as of publication had not received a response. In related coverage, IPS officials have sometimes denied claims of mistreatment and asserted that any disciplinary action would be taken if violations were proven. The interview with al Basyouni contributes to a broader international debate about the treatment of Gaza detainees and the need for independent oversight and accountability.
What This Means For Prison Oversight
Human rights organizations and international bodies have consistently called for greater transparency in detention practices, independent investigations into allegations of torture, and access to detainees for independent verification. The case underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law and domestic statutes governing prisoner treatment. For families and communities affected by conflict, firsthand allegations like these intensify calls for urgent reforms and robust monitoring mechanisms.
Note: This article reports on allegations made by a former detainee and includes the response efforts and context surrounding the broader debate over detainee treatment. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources and official statements for a comprehensive understanding.
