By Edward Makuzva The State of Palestine has expressed deep outrage and horror over the recent revelations that Israeli soldiers allegedly gang-raped Palestinian prisoners at the notorious Sde Teiman detention and torture site. The shocking allegations came to light following the leak of a video reportedly shared by former Israeli military prosecutor Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, sparking widespread condemnation and demands for international intervention. According to the Palestinian ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dr Tamer Almassri, added that the footage exposes the “systematic brutality” and “dehumanizing policies” that have long characterized Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees. Instead of denouncing the alleged perpetrators, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly condemned the leak itself, describing it as “betrayal and propaganda.” “This reaction lays bare the fascist and racist ideology that has taken root in the highest levels of the Israeli government,” Ambassador Almassri explained. “By shielding those responsible, Israel is effectively normalizing the use of sexual violence as a weapon of oppression.” Human rights observers have long accused Israel of maintaining a culture of impunity, where crimes against Palestinians go unpunished. The latest revelations, coupled with statements from Israeli soldiers convicted of torture and sexual assault who have publicly defended their actions, underscore what many describe as a dangerous erosion of moral and legal accountability within Israel’s military and political structures. More than 10,000 Palestinians, including women and children, are currently held in Israeli prisons. Many detainees reportedly face torture, starvation, and medical neglect, conditions that international watchdogs say violate international humanitarian law. A recent UN Commission of Inquiry report documented widespread and systematic abuse of Palestinian detainees in Israeli detention facilities—acts that may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under international law. Adding to growing concern, Israel’s Knesset is now considering a controversial draft bill that would impose the death penalty on Palestinian detainees accused of “terrorism.” Critics, including Palestinian officials, have condemned the proposal as a “draconian and extremist” measure aimed at legitimizing further violence against Palestinians. Palestine’s Ambassador Dr Almassri condemned the draft law and urged the global community to take decisive action: “We call upon international and legal institutions to expose and confront this dangerous course pursued by the occupying power. Those supporting such legislation must face sanctions, be listed among sponsors of terrorism, and be isolated diplomatically and politically,” he said. The Ambassador further emphasized the need for international accountability mechanisms to be activated to investigate and prosecute those responsible for war crimes and systematic violations against Palestinian detainees. “The international community must recognize the gravity of the situation,” he added. “Silence and inaction only embolden the perpetrators. The Palestinian people deserve justice, dignity, and freedom.” The State of Palestine reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to pursuing justice and sovereignty through diplomatic, legal, and political channels. “We will continue to advocate for an end to Israel’s occupation, apartheid, and genocide,” the statement concluded, “and for the establishment of a free and independent Palestinian state where our people can live in dignity and peace.” Post navigation Tanzania’s 2025 Elections: A Moment for Regional Reflection