Jeddah, April 17, 2024, On Palestinian Prisoner's Day, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) voiced deep concern over the escalating arbitrary detention campaigns conducted by the Israeli occupation within the occupied Palestinian territory. This surge has resulted in a rise in the prisoner count to more than 9,500 individuals, including 80 female prisoners and over 200 children. Alarmingly, more than 3,600 prisoners are being held as administrative detainees without formal charges or trials, with approximately 600 prisoners enduring life sentences.
The OIC further denounced the practices of the Israeli occupation, which tragically led to the martyrdom of 16 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli occupation prisons since October 7, 2023. Additionally, 27 prisoners from the Gaza Strip lost their lives due to torture and medical neglect.
Emphasizing the dire situation faced by Palestinian prisoners under Israeli custody, the OIC highlighted the gross injustices, violation of rights, and victimization they endure. The organization condemned the Israeli occupation's systematic and egregious practices, including deprivation of basic human rights, collective punishment, abuse, persecution, neglect, isolation, and both physical and psychological torture. These actions flagrantly contravene international humanitarian law, the Charter of Human Rights, the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, and other relevant international instruments.
The OIC called upon the international community and competent human rights institutions to fulfill their responsibilities and compel the Israeli occupation authorities to adhere to the Geneva Conventions, international humanitarian law, and all provisions of pertinent international conventions regarding the treatment of prisoners. Additionally, it urged for a comprehensive investigation into all crimes committed by the Israeli occupation against prisoners. The OIC reiterated its solidarity and unwavering support for the rights of Palestinian prisoners, pledging to stand by them, amplify their voices, and advocate for freedom and justice on their behalf within the international community.
