Israeli Authorities Target Families of Former Jerusalem Prisoners

The plight of Palestinian prisoners and their families continues to escalate, as evidenced by the recent actions taken by Israeli authorities against the relatives of former prisoners. The situation has become dire for families like that of Muhammad al-Daqqaq, whose elderly parents have faced financial and emotional turmoil due to the confiscation of their old-age benefits. This situation highlights a broader pattern of persecution that extends beyond incarceration, affecting the livelihoods of innocent family members. Al-Daqqaq, who spent four years in Israeli prisons, noted that the harassment his family faces is relentless, occurring even after his release. He has been forced to live separately to protect his parents from the repercussions of his past arrests, yet the occupation forces continue to target them, raiding their home and vandalizing their belongings. His mother, who relies on medical assistance, expressed despair over the confiscation of their funds, which were intended for essential medications. This ongoing trauma illustrates the far-reaching consequences of the Israeli occupation on Palestinian families, particularly those with members who have been imprisoned.