Story perspectives

Released Palestinian Prisoners Reveal Torture and Trauma

10/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

After a recent ceasefire, released Palestinian prisoners describe torture and trauma in Israeli confinement.
Ibrahim Abu Odeh, detained seven months, recalls brutal interrogations and inhumane conditions, saying, "They can break the body, but not the will."
Many released prisoners suffer health issues, including scabies and malnutrition.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Musa, freed after twenty months, says "Freedom isn’t survival" as he faced family loss and ongoing grief while returning to Gaza.

History

Historical Context

The Oslo Accords, signed on September 13, 1993, initiated a peace process between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), establishing frameworks for Palestinian self-governance and mutual recognition. Despite these agreements, ongoing violence and human rights abuses have persisted, with reports of torture among Palestinian prisoners highlighting the urgent need for accountability and reform in Israeli detention practices.

1 of 2

Story summary

After a recent ceasefire, released Palestinian prisoners describe torture and trauma in Israeli confinement.
Ibrahim Abu Odeh, detained seven months, recalls brutal interrogations and inhumane conditions, saying, "They can break the body, but not the will."
Many released prisoners suffer health issues, including scabies and malnutrition.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Musa, freed after twenty months, says "Freedom isn’t survival" as he faced family loss and ongoing grief while returning to Gaza.

1 / 2