In Protest: Criminal prisoners in Israel begin hunger strike over detention conditions

Yoni Yahav, the protest's initiator, stated, "National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has announced a tough stance against all prisoners in the country, and this policy amounts to trampling on prisoners' rights as decided by the legislature."

The protest follows a letter sent last month by hundreds of defense attorneys to Ben-Gvir and Israel Prison Service (IPS) Commissioner Major General Kobe Yaakovi. The letter highlighted deficiencies in communication between lawyers and the IPS, as well as worsening prisoner conditions.

Key issues raised include:

1. Overcrowding in prisons

2. Allegations of increased guard violence

3. Poor food quality and quantity

4. Bed bug infestations in cells

A February report by the Public Defender's Office warned of an "unprecedented detention crisis." It noted that nearly half of Israel's inmates are held in conditions that do not meet the Supreme Court's standard for living space, with less than 3 square meters per prisoner. Approximately 3,400 criminal inmates reportedly sleep on mattresses on the floor.

Yahav added, "We are in a situation of several thousands beyond the appropriate quota, and this raises tensions between prisoners. Unfortunately, it also leads to conflicts over who sleeps on the floor and who doesn't."

The IPS responded to the hunger strike, stating: "Hunger strikes harm only the prisoner, both nutritionally and disciplinarily. The days when IPS 'buys quiet' and manages a containment policy towards disciplinary violators are over. Any prisoner who violates discipline is subject to disciplinary action."

The IPS also emphasized that it operates under strict supervision and that prisoners have the right to complain through accepted channels.

The Minister of National Security has not provided a response to the hunger strike or the allegations of deteriorating prison conditions.

* Makor Rishon contributed to this article.