Surge in Palestinian Prisoner Deaths Amid Allegations of Abuse in Israeli Custody

A report by Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) has documented a significant increase in deaths among Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, with 98 fatalities recorded since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023. The report highlights systemic issues, including allegations of medical neglect and abuse, particularly at the Sde Teiman military detention facility.

The PHRI's findings indicate that the number of deaths among Palestinian prisoners has surged, with 27 deaths in 2023, 50 in 2024, and 21 in 2025, the latest occurring on November 2. The prison population has more than doubled to approximately 11,000, primarily due to mass arrests from Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The report suggests that the alarming rate of deaths reflects a system lacking moral and professional restraint, as stated by Naji Abbas, a director at PHRI.

Eyewitness accounts from former detainees and medical professionals reveal patterns of physical abuse and medical neglect. For instance, a 45-year-old man, Mohammad Husein Ali, died shortly after being detained, showing signs of physical assault. Another case involved a 17-year-old boy who died from malnutrition. Reports indicate that conditions in Israeli prisons have been criticized for being inadequate, with the Israeli Supreme Court ordering improvements in food quality for Palestinian inmates.

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) maintains that it operates in accordance with the law, asserting that all inmates' rights, including access to medical care and hygiene, are upheld. However, the IPS declined to comment on specific death counts and allegations presented by external organizations. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has previously stated that prison conditions serve as a deterrent, while also facing backlash for the treatment of prisoners.

Human rights groups, including B’Tselem, have condemned Israel's actions, with some labeling them as genocidal. The treatment of Palestinian children in custody has also drawn significant criticism, with reports detailing torture and inhumane conditions. The NGO Defense for Children Palestine (DCIP) reported that three Palestinian teenagers described severe mistreatment, including beatings and psychological torture during their detention.

Middle East Eye

While the PHRI has documented 98 deaths, the Israeli military acknowledges some detainee fatalities but attributes them to preexisting health conditions or combat-related injuries. Rights groups argue that investigations into alleged abuses are often superficial, contributing to a culture of impunity.

• “The alarming rate at which people are killed in Israeli custody reveals a system that has lost all moral and professional restraint,” — Naji Abbas, Director, PHRI

• “I endured those hours without food, water, or even a chance to use the bathroom.” — Faris Ibrahim Faris Abu Jabal, Former Detainee

Middle East Eye

• “Prison has stripped away my childhood, forcing me to rediscover how to laugh, how to sleep, and how to feel secure.” — Mahmoud Hani Mohammad al-Majayda, Former Detainee

Middle East Eye

The surge in deaths among Palestinian prisoners and the allegations of abuse highlight significant human rights concerns within Israeli detention facilities. As the situation evolves, ongoing scrutiny from human rights organizations and the international community is expected to continue.