Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Palestine, accused Israeli forces of using torture against Palestinian detainees and the wider population in occupied territories during the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council on May 17, 2026 [1]. Albanese said, "Israel uses torture against Palestinian detainees in Israeli detention centers and against the wider Palestinian population in the occupied territories." She detailed that such torture includes rape, sexual abuse, physical torture, degrading treatment, and other abuses by Israeli forces [2, 1].
The allegations are supported by years of documentation from human rights groups and Palestinian organizations, but recent reporting has brought renewed attention. A New York Times investigation published on May 11, 2026, exposed widespread torture and sexual violence against Palestinians in Israeli custody [1]. Albanese also discussed these abuses publicly on the Al Jazeera UpFront program on May 16, 2026 [2].
The UN report titled "Torture and Genocide," presented by Albanese at the Council session, covers violations since Israel occupied Palestinian territories in 1967, with particular focus on developments since October 7, 2023 [1]. The report highlights harsh treatment ordered by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, including handcuffing prisoners in dark cells and exposing them continuously to the Israeli national anthem [1].
Albanese emphasized that torture is not confined to prisons or interrogations. She said Palestinians face torture through "mass displacement, siege, restrictions on humanitarian aid and food, military violence, and attacks by Israeli occupiers" [1]. The report argues that the systematic nature of the abuses may indicate genocidal intent under the Genocide Convention [1].
The United Nations Human Rights Council session on May 17 marked the formal presentation of the report to international governments and human rights bodies. The findings come after growing global scrutiny spurred by investigative journalism and advocacy efforts. Further responses and actions by the UN and member states are anticipated following the report's release.
