Dozens of Palestinian journalists have reported widespread abuse while held in Israeli prisons, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists. The February 19 report details accounts from 59 journalists detained since October 2023, with almost all describing torture, beatings, starvation, and sexual assault.
Some detainees reported being electrocuted, forced into stress positions, and subjected to sexual violence. Two journalists said they were raped, while others described threats to their families, denial of medical care, and prolonged exposure to extreme hunger. Photos reviewed by the group showed prisoners with protruding ribs and hollowed faces.
Most of those interviewed were held under administrative detention without charges, and a quarter were never allowed to speak to a lawyer. Journalists said they lost an average of 23.5 kilograms while in custody, surviving on mouldy bread and rotten food.
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The CPJ called on the international community to ensure accountability, saying the abuse represents a deliberate effort to intimidate and silence journalists. Israeli authorities have previously faced similar allegations of mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners, including at the Sde Teiman and Megiddo facilities.
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