A recent United Nations report has surfaced, accusing Israeli troops of abusing Palestinians, both women and men, during the conflict in Gaza. The report, compiled by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), details instances of mistreatment and improper detention of hundreds of Gazans by Israeli forces.
According to the report, at least 1,000 detainees were held without charges at three military locations within the occupied territories, with some individuals dying in custody. UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini disclosed that released detainees returned traumatized, reporting various forms of ill-treatment, including threats of electrocution, sleep deprivation, and intimidation by dogs.
Furthermore, the report highlights disturbing accounts of sexual violence against Palestinian men and women in detention settings, during house raids, and at checkpoints. Palestinian detainees described harrowing experiences, including beatings and threats of rape against themselves and their family members.
The UN mission also expressed concern over the treatment of Palestinian women and men in the West Bank, citing instances of cruel and degrading treatment, including unwanted touching, forced unveiling, beatings, and threats of sexual violence.
In response to these allegations, Palestinian groups are urging action, while UN experts appointed by the Human Rights Council have raised alarms over rights violations against Palestinian women and children. UNRWA has also criticized Israeli authorities for ill-treatment of its staff members from Gaza, including reports of torture, abuse, and sexual exploitation.
The report underscores the urgent need for accountability and respect for the rights and dignity of Palestinian civilians, amid escalating tensions and violence in the region.
