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Hamas condemns Israel’s repression of female prisoners in Damon prison, calls for international action

May 5, 2026 at 7:39 am

Palestinian women take part in a march demanding the release of female prisoners in Israeli occupation prisons in Nablus in the West Bank on March 9, 2025. [Mohammed Nasser/Apaimages]

The Hamas has condemned the Israeli escalating repression and torture of Palestinian female detainees in Damon Prison, calling the practices “war crimes” and urging immediate international intervention.

In a statement on Monday, the group cited testimonies indicating that female prisoners are forced to lie face down, handcuffed behind their backs, and subjected to beatings, kicks and other forms of abuse. It also said detainees have been placed in solitary confinement.

Hamas said such practices reflect Israel’s disregard for humanitarian and moral standards, and called for accountability for Israeli officials, as well as urgent efforts to protect detainees.

The group urged Palestinian factions, human rights organisations and civil society groups to intensify efforts in support of prisoners and advocate for their release.

Earlier, the Palestinian Prisoners and Ex-Prisoners Affairs Commission reported that female detainees in Damon Prison had faced repeated crackdowns—more than 10 in the past month—accompanied by beatings, abuse and the use of tear gas.

The reports add to ongoing concerns raised by Palestinian organisations over detention conditions and treatment of prisoners.