UN Marks International Day in Support of Victims of Torture Amid Ongoing Concerns
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The United Nations General Assembly commemorated the 27th International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on Tuesday, highlighting the persistent issue of torture in conflict zones and territories. Despite efforts to eradicate torture, violations continue to occur, particularly in the occupied Palestinian territories and war-torn Syria.
Israel's Long History of Torture
Israel has subjected Palestinians to displacement, killings, arbitrary arrests, and torture since its establishment in 1948. Reports indicate a significant increase in human rights violations since October 2023. The Committee Against Torture has received over 1,400 complaints of torture, with all cases closed before indictment. According to Addameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association, 233 Palestinian prisoners have died in Israeli custody since 1967, with 73 deaths directly resulting from torture.
The situation is dire in Gaza, with estimates suggesting 3,000 to 5,000 Palestinians forcibly detained by Israel. Released detainees have reported severe signs of torture, including prolonged binding, electric shocks, forced starvation, and sleep deprivation.
Torture in Syria
Syria has witnessed rampant human rights abuses since the onset of the civil war in March 2011. The Syrian Network for Human Rights reports that 15,334 people have died due to torture. The PKK/YPG terrorist organization has caused the deaths of 100 people through torture, while Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Daesh/ISIS have also been responsible for torture-related deaths.
Arbitrary detention remains widespread, with 156,757 individuals detained since 2011. Current estimates suggest that around 400,000 people are subjected to torture in Syrian prisons.
Guantanamo Bay: A Symbol of Torture
Guantanamo Bay detention camp, opened in 2002 by former US President George W. Bush, has become synonymous with torture. Since its inception, 779 detainees have faced severe torture without formal charges or trials. Amnesty International reports that currently, 30 Muslims are held in detention for over 22 years without trial.
The camp has been criticized for systematic torture methods under the guise of "enhanced interrogation." Former detainees often face continued psychological torture and discrimination after their release, highlighting ongoing human rights issues related to the camp.
The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture aims to raise awareness and support for those affected by this heinous crime. The UN General Assembly's commemoration serves as a reminder of the urgent need for reform to prevent such violations from continuing.
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