Palestinians testified at the UN about severe mistreatment, including torture and sexual abuse, during detainment by Israeli forces. Said Abdel Fattah and others recounted harrowing experiences of violence while in custody, sparking significant discussion on accountability and human rights. The hearings aim to highlight systemic abuse amid the ongoing conflict, despite Israeli officials’ dismissal of the claims.
Palestinians have come forward to detail harrowing experiences of mistreatment, including severe beatings and sexual abuse, while detained by Israeli forces. This testimony was shared during public hearings at the United Nations. Said Abdel Fattah, a 28-year-old nurse detained in Gaza, recounted his ordeal, facing humiliation and intense physical abuse over two months in detention facilities. He vividly described a brutal interrogation, stating that he was treated “like a punching bag” and experienced severe injuries as a result of the torture.
These hearings were convened by the UN’s independent Commission of Inquiry, focusing on allegations of sexual violence against Palestinians by Israeli security forces and settlers. Chris Sidoti, a member of the inquiry, emphasized the importance of allowing victims to be heard and to address the systematic patterns of abuse in these volatile situations since the onset of the current conflict.
Ambassador Daniel Meron of Israel criticized the hearings, labeling them as a misuse of resources, while claiming that Israel conducts thorough investigations of any wrongdoing. In response, Palestinian lawyer Sahar Francis asserted that sexual abuse in detention has become widespread, with disturbing accounts of strip searches and other violations reported.
Moreover, testimonies extend beyond official detention centers. Mohamed Matar described horrific treatment at the hands of both settlers and Israeli agents after being detained while attempting to support a vulnerable community. His testimony highlighted extreme cruelty and sadism, illustrating the psychological impact of such violence. Matar expressed disbelief at the depths of human cruelty he had witnessed during this ordeal.
The testimonies presented at the United Nations reflect serious allegations of torture and sexual abuse of Palestinians in Israeli custody. These accounts, now under scrutiny by the Commission of Inquiry, highlight a troubling trend of violence that has escalated since the recent conflict began. As the Israeli ambassador dismisses the hearings, advocates urge for accountability and recognition of the victims’ rights to share their experiences and seek justice.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
