The United States has expressed concern over allegations of sexual abuse of Palestinian prisoners by members of the Israeli military. The State Department called the reports “horrific” and urged the Israeli government to fully investigate the claims. The White House also described the reports of rape, torture, and abuse as deeply concerning. The Israel Defense Forces have confirmed that five soldiers remain in detention for allegations of serious abuse, and the investigation is ongoing.
A report by B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights group, alleged repeated use of sexual violence by soldiers or prison guards against Palestinian detainees. Witnesses described instances of genital pain caused by metal tools and batons, as well as gang sexual violence. A Palestinian detainee claimed he was sodomized with a carrot by a member of the Israel Prison Service’s Initial Reaction Force in 2023.
Since the war in Gaza began in October, many Palestinians have been detained by Israel, with some cases of abuse reported. The UN has also detailed cases of sexual abuse against detainees by Israeli forces, including using a hot metal stick. The U.N. special rapporteur on torture called on Israel to investigate torture and inhumane treatment, emphasizing that no circumstances justify such actions.
Israeli authorities detained reservists in July for abusing prisoners, sparking protests. Lawmakers defended abusive actions, stating that everything is legitimate against Hamas militants. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not publicly addressed these comments but called for calm amid protests. The U.S. has urged Israel to treat all detainees humanely, in accordance with international law.
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