UN probe finds Palestinians subjected to beatings, electric shocks and sexual violence in Israeli detention

Thousands of Palestinian administrative detainees – those being held without charge or trial – are subject to ill-treatment including dire physical conditions, torture and sexual violence, according to a report released on Wednesday by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

The report detailing the “prolonged secret and incommunicado detention” of Palestinians by Israeli authorities states that dozens have also died in Israeli custody.

The report also notes detentions carried out by armed groups and the Palestinian Authority.

Since Israel’s war on Gaza began on 7 October, the Israeli parliament has increased the period allowed for administrative detention under the Incarceration of Unlawful Combatants Law.

The Israeli military has taken into custody thousands of Palestinians in Gaza and over 10,000 Palestinians who were legally present in Israel, the report says.

Read more: UN probe finds Palestinians subjected to beatings, electric shocks and sexual violence in Israeli detention