The U.S. State Department has called for a thorough investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinian detainees by Israeli soldiers. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, addressing the issue on Wednesday, emphasized the need for “zero tolerance” for such abuses.
Miller’s comments followed the airing of a video by Israel’s Channel 12, which appears to show soldiers removing a detainee from the view of surveillance cameras before carrying out alleged abuses. The U.S. has reviewed the video and described the reported sexual abuse as “horrific.”
“We have seen the video, and reports of sexual abuse of detainees are horrific. They ought to be investigated fully by the government of Israel, by the IDF,” Miller stated, referring to the Israel Defense Forces. “There ought to be zero tolerance for sexual abuse, rape of any detainee, period. If there are detainees who have been sexually assaulted or raped, the government of Israel, the IDF need to fully investigate those actions and hold anyone responsible accountable to the full extent of the law.”
The White House also expressed deep concern over reports of rape, torture, and abuse of Palestinian prisoners. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and due process.
The Israeli embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, the Israeli military, which operates some detention facilities housing Palestinian prisoners, stated that it adheres to the rule of law and investigates specific abuse claims.
The video comes amid an ongoing investigation by Israeli authorities into alleged soldier misconduct involving Palestinian detainees. The investigation has led to protests by right-wing Israelis, including a breach into two military facilities following the detention of nine soldiers over severe abuse allegations at the Sde Teiman detention facility in southern Israel.
State Department spokesperson Miller acknowledged the IDF’s announcement of an investigation and the arrest of suspects but stressed that the investigation should proceed swiftly. He underscored that if any violations are found, those responsible must be held accountable.
Israeli rights group B’Tselem reported on Monday that Israel has implemented a systematic policy of prisoner abuse and torture since the start of the Gaza war in October, with Palestinian detainees subjected to various forms of violence and abuse.
