GENEVA, Thursday, May 23, 2024 (WAFA) - A United Nations expert called today on the Israeli occupation to investigate multiple reports of cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons.

The U.N. Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Jill Edwards, said in a statement that she had received reports of people being beaten, kept in Israeli prison cells blindfolded and handcuffed for long periods.

Edwards added that she had received reports of some detainees being deprived of sleep, threatened with physical and sexual violence, insulted and exposed to humiliating acts, including "being photographed and filmed in degrading poses".

"I am particularly concerned that this emerging pattern of violations, coupled with an absence of accountability and transparency, is creating a permissive environment for further abusive and humiliating treatment of Palestinians," Edwards said.

She affirmed, "The Israeli authorities must investigate all complaints and reports of torture or ill-treatment promptly, impartially, effectively and transparently. Those responsible at all levels, including commanders, must be held accountable, while victims have a right to reparation and compensation."

M.N