Calls for Israel to Probe Allegations of Sexual Abuse Against Palestinian Detainees

The U.S. State Department has urged Israel to fully investigate allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinian detainees by Israeli soldiers. Reports and videos suggest severe abuses, sparking protests and an internal military investigation. Both the U.S. and Israeli rights groups emphasize the necessity of accountability and adherence to the rule of law.

The United States has called on Israel to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinian detainees by its soldiers, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller announced on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of 'zero tolerance' for such acts.

In response to a video aired on Israel's Channel 12, which purportedly shows soldiers abusing a detainee away from surveillance cameras, Miller stated that U.S. officials had reviewed the footage and found it deeply troubling. 'Reports of sexual abuse of detainees are horrific and should be fully investigated by the Israeli government and the IDF,' he asserted.

White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated the U.S. position, stressing the essentiality of law and due process. The Israeli military has claimed adherence to the rule of law and has initiated an investigation involving military police and the arrest of nine soldiers. This investigation has led to protests by right-wing Israelis. An Israeli rights group, B'Tselem, reported ongoing abuse and torture of Palestinian prisoners since the Gaza war began in October.

(With inputs from agencies.)