Israel shifts detainees instead of improving prison conditions

In recent months, Israel's military has faced increasing scrutiny regarding the treatment of Palestinian detainees, particularly those held in facilities in Gaza. Under pressure from the Supreme Court to improve conditions at the Sde Teiman facility, notorious for mistreating detainees, hundreds of individuals were moved to newly constructed camps. The Israeli military reported the transfer of approximately 500 detainees to Ofer Camp, claiming it necessary to ensure better treatment. However, testimonies gathered from over 30 detainees reveal that the conditions in the new locations, such as Ofer and Anatot, are reportedly no better than before, with allegations of continued beatings and excessive handcuffing. Many detainees indicate they were kept shackled for extended periods, including during basic activities like eating and sleeping, and were subjected to punitive measures. Rights groups, including Hamoked and Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, have raised concerns about the lack of improvements and the ongoing maltreatment of these individuals. Detainees spoke about poor diet and health care; a pediatric dietitian described the meal provision as inhumane, with an average of only 1,000 calories daily. Reports of overcrowding have emerged, with some detainees forced to sleep on mattresses on the floors. In light of the new evidence and ongoing rights violations, the situation illustrates a troubling trend of systemic abuse rather than effective reform. The military's claim of improved medical check-ups was contradicted by detainees who described experiences of untreated ailments, further highlighting the critical need for external oversight and substantial legal reforms. As the public and international community remain alarmed, calls for change must prioritize the humane treatment of those detained without charge or trial.