Palestinians testified at the United Nations about extreme abuse and sexual violence by Israeli forces and settlers. Key testimonies described brutal beatings and threats endured in detention, raising concerns about a systemic issue of violence against detainees. Israeli officials dismissed these testimonies, but the UN Commission of Inquiry emphasized the significance of hearing victims’ voices in the ongoing conflict.
Palestinians testified at the United Nations regarding severe abuse endured in Israeli detention and from settlers. Said Abdel Fattah, a nurse detained in November 2023, recounted the brutal treatment he experienced, including physical and sexual abuse. Israel’s ambassador, Daniel Meron, dismissed the testimonies as irrelevant, claiming thorough investigations of all allegations against Israeli forces.
Fattah described the trauma he faced, including being stripped naked, beaten, and threatened with rape over two months. He revealed horrific details of being assaulted during interrogations, stating, “I was like a punching bag”. His testimony came during a session led by the UN’s independent Commission of Inquiry focusing on sexual violence against Palestinians.
The hearings faced criticism from Israel, as officials argued that comparing individual allegations to Hamas’s violence was inappropriate. COI member Chris Sidoti emphasized the importance of hearing victims’ stories. Additionally, experts noted a growing trend of sexual violence against Palestinians post-October 7, 2023, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Palestinian attorney Sahar Francis highlighted a concerning lack of accountability, indicating that strip searches of detainees have become commonplace. She claimed that many arrested faced severe sexual abuse, particularly during the initial phases of conflict.
Witness Mohamed Matar described a harrowing experience of torture by security agents and settlers, illustrating the escalation of violence against Palestinian activists. He recounted being physically violated while being detained alongside other activists, prompting him to plead, “just shoot me in the head.” Matar’s testimony, paired with photographic evidence of his injuries, shed light on the severe psychological and physical scars left by such brutal encounters.
The testimonies of Palestinian victims at the UN highlighted alarming accounts of violence and sexual abuse experienced in Israeli detention and by settlers. The UN Commission of Inquiry’s focus on these issues emphasizes the need for accountability and acknowledgment of victims’ suffering in light of the ongoing conflict. The dismissive attitude from Israeli officials reflects the broader challenges in addressing the alleged systematic abuse. Both the urgent need for international recognition and a framework for accountability remains critical as the situation evolves.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
