Gaza: Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has openly claimed responsibility for worsening the conditions of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Ben-Gvir made these remarks during a visit to the cells of Palestinian women prisoners. The minister posted a video on his X account on Sunday, showing a female prisoner discussing the inadequate conditions within the detention facility. The prisoner highlighted the lack of basic rights and necessities, stating that they had gone three days without showering, lacked medical treatment, and had unclean clothes.
In response, Ben-Gvir boasted about the deterioration of the prison conditions, expressing his satisfaction. He stated, "The good conditions in the prisons are over. This is the current situation, and I am directly responsible for everything. I am pleased with these conditions."
This incident is part of a series of similar visits by Ben-Gvir, who has previously entered prisoners' cells to mock them. Earlier in the month, he taunted a female prisoner who raised concerns about harsh detention conditions and the deprivation of basic necessities.
Since assuming office in late 2022, Ben-Gvir has implemented policies designed to exacerbate the conditions for Palestinian prisoners. These measures have included food deprivation, mistreatment, physical abuse, and restrictions that have led to health issues, isolation, and limited family visits.
According to the Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs, there are approximately 9,400 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, which include 88 women and over 350 children.