The Israeli army reacted on Friday by ensuring that its prisoners were treated “in accordance with international law”.

Detentions “in generally horrible conditions”. “Thousands” of men have been arrested by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war against Hamas, the UN said on Friday, January 19, citing ill-treatment that could amount to the torture. In response, the Israeli military reiterated that "those detained [were] treated in accordance with international law."

Some "described being beaten, humiliated, subjected to ill-treatment and what could amount to torture", all in unknown locations and for periods ranging from 30 to 55 days, according to the representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Ajit Sunghay. “They reported being blindfolded for long periods, some for several days in a row,” the official said. “One man said he had access to a shower only once during his 55 days of detention. There are reports of men who were later released, but only in diapers,” he added.

The Israeli army told AFP that individuals suspected of being involved in terrorist activities were being arrested and questioned. “Individuals who do not participate in terrorist activities are released,” said this source, adding that it is often necessary “for suspected terrorists to hand over their clothes so that they can be searched and to ensure that "They are not hiding explosive vests or other weapons." Clothing is returned when possible, the army further specifies.