Scabies Outbreak in Israeli Prisons Affects Palestinian Detainees
A severe outbreak of scabies, a contagious skin disease, is currently impacting Palestinian prisoners in the Israeli Negev prison, according to two Palestinian human rights organizations. The Palestinian Liberation Organization's Commission of Prisoners' Affairs and the Prisoners' Club reported that out of 35 detainees recently visited by lawyers, 25 were found to be infected with the disease. The organizations condemned the conditions in the prison, describing them as systematic medical crimes and torture, exacerbated by punitive measures imposed by Israeli authorities since October 7, 2023.
The prison population in Negev is estimated to be around 3,000 prisoners, and testimonies from those incarcerated highlight severe neglect and mistreatment. Many prisoners are reportedly enduring harsh conditions without adequate medical care or hygiene supplies. Factors contributing to the outbreak include reduced cleaning materials, limited bathing opportunities, and inadequate clothing, leaving many prisoners with only one set of clothes that they must wash by hand. The prison administration's refusal to address these issues has led to the rapid spread of scabies among the inmates.
Human Rights Violations and Prisoner Testimonies
The joint statement from the Palestinian organizations detailed the ongoing abuse faced by prisoners, including humiliating treatment during visits. Detainees are often blindfolded, their limbs bound, and subjected to degrading treatment as they are escorted to and from meetings with lawyers. The statement emphasized that these conditions represent a broader pattern of systematic torture and medical negligence within the prison system.
One particularly alarming case is that of Abdul Rahman Salah, a 71-year-old prisoner suffering from multiple health issues, including severe visual and hearing impairments. Salah's health has deteriorated significantly following an assault by prison guards, leading to a brain hemorrhage and memory loss. Despite his critical condition, he was returned to Negev Prison, where he contracted scabies, worsening his already dire situation.
Official statistics indicate that over 10,100 Palestinian prisoners are currently held in Israeli prisons, including 94 women and 270 minors. The situation of these prisoners continues to draw international attention and condemnation, as human rights organizations call for immediate intervention and improved conditions.
