Palestinian minors face intensified solitary confinement in Israeli prisons, report says

The recent report by the Palestinian Center for Prisoner Studies paints a grim picture of the treatment of Palestinian minors within Israeli detention facilities. The systematic use of solitary confinement, extended periods without family visits, and a general disregard for medical and hygienic needs are not isolated incidents but rather a policy of repression aimed at punishing young detainees.

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The minors detained in the prisons of the Zionist occupation are subjected to a growing policy of repression and sanctions, particularly the use of solitary confinement for long periods, in 'harsh and inhumane' conditions causing psychological and physical disorders.

The conditions described – overcrowding, inadequate food, and the rampant spread of diseases like scabies due to lack of hygiene and water – are starkly contrasted with the international conventions meant to protect children. The Center's director, Riyad Al Ashqar, emphasizes that these are not mere administrative shortcomings but deliberate actions that inflict severe psychological and physical harm, leading to anxiety, depression, and memory loss among these vulnerable youths.

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minors detained in the youth sections of Ofer and Megiddo prisons, as well as dozens of others in interrogation and detention centers, face 'retaliatory measures'.

From our perspective at El Watan, this situation constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and the rights of children. The sheer scale of solitary confinement cases, particularly the sharp rise since October 7, 2023, suggests a punitive approach that goes beyond legitimate security concerns. The report’s assertion that these practices amount to war crimes underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for international attention and accountability.

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the number of minors subjected to this punishment has strongly increased since October 7, 2023.