Deteriorating Conditions in Israeli Prisons

Following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, conditions for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails have worsened significantly. The new Israeli government, led by far-right leaders including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has initiated harsh reforms aimed at reducing the perceived privileges of prisoners, such as limiting access to basic hygiene and necessities. Reports from human rights groups indicate that these changes have effectively turned prisons into sites of systematic abuse, with severe restrictions on food, access to showers, and visitation rights. This overhaul reflects an agenda that emphasizes severe punishment for Palestinian detainees, marking a dramatic shift from previously more humane standards.