Over the past several months, Israeli soldiers have detained hundreds of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip without charge. The released prisoners, numbering 150, were taken to hospitals for treatment after being severely mistreated while in captivity. Some of the prisoners were reported to have been tortured, with UNRWA expressing concern about their traumatic experiences and various abuses suffered at the hands of Israeli authorities.
Despite this, Israel continues to maintain that it does not condone the mistreatment of prisoners. Instead, they argue that those not involved in terrorist activities will be released back to their homes in the Gaza Strip. The latest group of released prisoners returned to the Gaza Strip through Kerem Shalom border crossing from Israel.
The Israeli military did not comment on the release specifically, but did state that mistreatment of prisoners is strictly prohibited by international law. Efforts are being made to ensure that Palestinian prisoners are treated humanely and in accordance with international standards. The situation of Palestinian detainees remains a matter of concern for many organizations working to promote human rights and justice for Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.
