The recent spat between Israel and Gaza has brought to light some shocking reports of physical abuse by Israeli authorities against Gazan workers. According to news reports, about 70 employees of Israeli businesses were suddenly expelled from the country in early June, causing financial losses to Gaza businesses and individuals.
A number of workers who were expelled from Israel have now spoken out and are accusing the Israeli authorities of physical abuse. This includes allegations of beatings and ill-treatment while in detention. The workers were reportedly held in several locations before being expelled from the country, and many of them claim that they were subjected to unfair treatment by Israeli soldiers and police.
One man, Hassan Jaber, recounted to news outlets how he was in the middle of a work shift at an Israeli lumberyard when he was detained by two Israeli soldiers. From there, he was reportedly stripped of his work clothes and transferred to a detention center in Tel Aviv, where he remained for four days. During the time, he claims to have witnessed numerous acts of physical abuse by Israeli police against other prisoners. Despite having all necessary papers proving his right to work, Jaber was never allowed to explain his situation or contact a lawyer.
Another worker told the story of his ordeal while being held in a crowded jail in the south of Israel. He claimed to have had no access to a lawyer and was detained for seven days before being expelled from the country. He further recounted how he and the other Gazans were only fed once a day, and not allowed to use the restroom for long periods of time.
These reports about abuse at the hands of Israeli authorities come at a time when the tension between Israel and Gaza is at an all-time high. The situation has already been grim for Palestinians living in Gaza and if reports of physical abuse by Israeli authorities are true, it would suggest a situation of heightened pressure and suffering for the residents of Gaza.
Clearly, further investigation and an independent inquiry is needed to establish the facts and take necessary action against any wrongdoing by anyone. Until then, these reports should serve as a sobering reminder of the types of abuses that can take place in a situation of political tension and unrest.
