Naji Abbas of Physicians for Human Rights Israel told Al Jazeera about the severe medical neglect of Palestinian prisoners, citing a "pandemic of scabies" and denial of treatment for serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease. He accuses the Israel Prison Service of using medical care as punishment, alleging systemic denial of care. Prisoners suffered for months without access to doctors, with some dying after prolonged complaints. The Israel Prison Service denies these claims, but Abbas insists the neglect has worsened, calling it an "official policy." Conditions in prisons, including lack of sunlight and hygiene, exacerbate suffering. Abbas stresses this is not mere neglect but deliberate punishment.
