Israel's ban on Red Cross visits violates humanitarian principles, says EU commissioner

Israeli Ban on Red Cross Visits Condemned by EU Commissioner

Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, condemned Israel for blocking the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) from accessing Palestinian prisoners.

"Denying our partner @ICRC_ilot access to Palestinian prisoners – who face dire conditions – violates humanitarian principles."

Lahbib emphasized the EU's support for humanitarian organizations that operate independently, neutrally, and impartially.

Israeli Prisoners' Conditions and Restrictions

Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announced on October 29 that visits to thousands of Palestinian prisoners have been banned.
Released prisoners have shown evidence of abuse, malnutrition, and injuries consistent with torture during detention.
More than 10,000 Palestinians, including women and children, remain imprisoned in Israel under harsh conditions involving torture, starvation, and medical neglect.
These conditions have resulted in the deaths of numerous detainees, as reported by both Palestinian and Israeli human rights groups.

Ceasefire Deal and Prisoner Exchange

The first phase of the ceasefire agreement includes:

The release of Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Plans for Gaza’s reconstruction.
The establishment of a new governing authority excluding Hamas.

Hadja Lahbib's statement highlights the critical importance of respecting humanitarian access and protecting prisoner rights amid ongoing conflict.

Anadolu Ajansı — 2025-11-04

Israeli Ban on Red Cross Visits Condemned by EU Commissioner

Israeli Prisoners' Conditions and Restrictions

Ceasefire Deal and Prisoner Exchange

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