Palestinian Authority Reports Death of Hamas Leader in Israeli Custody

A Hamas leader in the West Bank, Mustafa Muhammad Abu Ara, reportedly died in Israeli custody following a deterioration in his health condition, according to a statement from the Palestinian Commission of Detainees Affairs released early Friday.

Abu Ara, 63, passed away after being transferred to a hospital from the Ramon jail in southern Israel. The Palestinian body stated that he had been suffering from serious health issues requiring intensive medical follow-up before his arrest. They allege that since his arrest in October last year, Abu Ara faced severe mistreatment and was denied necessary medical care.

The Commission's statement claimed that "Sheikh Abu Ara, like all prisoners, has faced unprecedented crimes ... since the beginning of the war of extermination." Additionally, they reported that Abu Ara had been subjected to torture and deprivation of medical treatment during his detention.

Israel has not yet commented on these allegations.

The Palestinian Prisoners Association reported last month that at least 18 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody since the onset of the Gaza war on October 7.

Israel's handling of detainees and the conditions in which they are kept continue to be a source of significant controversy and international concern. Share this article and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the ongoing conflict and related human rights issues.