Controversy Erupts Over Israeli Forced Nudity Amid Gaza Conflict; UN Accuses of Humiliation Tactics
January 24, 2025In a recent incident in Jabalia, northern Gaza Strip, a journalist reported that Israeli forces allegedly forced between 150 to 200 Palestinians to strip to their underwear before their detention.
Israel has defended this practice of forced nudity, claiming it is necessary for security checks to prevent explosives, despite facing widespread international condemnation.
Witness accounts also reveal instances of physical abuse, including beatings and exposure to cold for those left behind after some individuals were taken away by soldiers.
A UN Human Rights Council inquiry has accused Israel of using forced nudity as a means to degrade and humiliate detainees, aligning with the concerns raised by various human rights organizations.
Ramy Abdu from Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor highlighted disturbing testimonies from released detainees, who reported systematic abuse, including forced strip searches and severe beatings.
B'Tselem's report has drawn attention to institutionalized torture practices against Palestinian detainees, noting at least 60 deaths in custody since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023.
Witnesses have described Israeli troops forcibly removing civilians from their homes, including UN schools, amidst heavy bombardment, which has led to the destruction of these structures.
The ongoing offensive has resulted in dire living conditions for Palestinians, exacerbated by a blockade and media blackout, leading to allegations of worsening starvation.
An Israeli military plan aims to evacuate areas in northern Gaza, labeling those who remain as Hamas operatives, which could render them liable for lethal force.
International human rights groups are urging global leaders to intervene against Israel's forced displacement practices in northern Gaza, which they argue constitute ethnic cleansing.
Amidst these developments, an International Court of Justice case has been filed against Israel for genocide, as investigations into war crimes related to the Gaza conflict continue.
Video evidence has surfaced showing scattered clothing, indicating that frequent strip-searching has occurred during Israel's offensive in northern Gaza.
Summary based on 1 source