Systematic Dehumanization: Israel’s Suppression of Palestinian Emotions and Rights

Phalapoem editor, 19/01/2025

Israel’s systematic dehumanization of Palestinians manifests through various oppressive measures, including the denial of basic human experiences such as pleasure and sorrow, the imposition of restrictive checkpoints, and the use of torture within its prisons.

Denial of Emotional Expression

Palestinians often face restrictions that impede their ability to experience joy or mourn losses. Cultural and social gatherings are frequently disrupted or prohibited, limiting opportunities for communal celebration and solidarity. Additionally, mourning rituals are sometimes constrained, preventing families from grieving together and honoring their deceased appropriately.

Restrictive Checkpoints

The extensive network of Israeli checkpoints across the occupied Palestinian territories severely restricts freedom of movement. These checkpoints not only hinder daily activities such as work, education, and healthcare access but also contribute to a pervasive sense of humiliation and subjugation. The constant surveillance and arbitrary delays at these checkpoints serve as a daily reminder of the lack of autonomy experienced by Palestinians.

Torture and Inhumane Treatment in Prisons

Reports from human rights organizations have documented horrifying cases of torture and degrading treatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons. Amnesty International highlighted a dramatic increase in the use of administrative detention and inhumane treatment of prisoners, including incidents of torture and deaths in custody.  The United Nations has also reported on Israel’s escalating use of torture against Palestinians in custody, describing it as a preventable crime against humanity. 

These practices are part of a broader system that aims to dehumanize Palestinians, stripping them of dignity and basic human rights. International bodies and human rights organizations continue to call for accountability and an end to these violations, emphasizing the urgent need for adherence to international humanitarian law and the protection of human rights for all individuals.