AJP Action Condemns Israeli Minister’s Admission of Human Rights Violations, Calls for U.S. Accountability

[WASHINGTON D.C., July 3, 2024] – American for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action) strongly condemns the abhorrent remarks made by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir regarding the horrific and illegal treatment of Palestinian prisoners.

The statement by Ben Gvir, in which he admits to deliberately worsening the conditions of Palestinian prisoners and proposes the death penalty as a solution to prison overcrowding, is not only inhumane but also deeply hypocritical. It reflects a blatant disregard for human rights and the rule of law that the United States, Israel, and their allies claim to uphold.

Since October 2023, many members of the Israeli government have blatantly announced their violations of international law. Ben Gvir’s comments reveal a disturbing acceptance of torture and maltreatment as methods of control, a stark violation of international humanitarian rights. His acknowledgment that “everything published about the abominable conditions was true” confirms what the public already knows— the systemic brutality faced by Palestinian detainees, including torture and rape is true. Such admissions should alarm the international community and prompt immediate action by President Joe Biden, including cutting off all aid and weapon sales to Israel.

AJP Action calls upon U.S. policymakers to denounce these appalling remarks and demand President Biden take concrete steps to protect the rights and dignity of Palestinian prisoners. The systematic oppression and dehumanization of Palestinians must end. Justice and equality must be upheld for all, regardless of ethnicity or nationality. The United States must address these blatant violations and hold the Israeli government accountable.