Written by Yvonne Misando
At least 23 Palestinian child prisoners have been released by Israel as part of the ceasefire deal, bringing into focus Israel’s systematic prosecution of Palestinian children in military courts.
In Israel, many Palestinian children find themselves in prisons, and this situation is quite serious. As of late 2024, around 270 Palestinian children are being held in Israeli prisons, and this number does not include those detained in Gaza. These children are often arrested for various reasons, with one common accusation being that they threw stones. The laws in Israel allow for the arrest of children as young as 12 years old, and recently, a new law was passed that even allows for the detention of children under 14.
The law states that in November 2024, the Israeli Knesset enacted legislation permitting the detention of children under the age of 14 if convicted of murder associated with terrorism or terrorist activities. This law, effective for five years, allows courts to order the detention of such minors in closed facilities.
Critics argue that this legislation disproportionately affects Palestinian minors and contravenes international human rights standards concerning the treatment of children.
As of January 2025, reports indicate that over 300 Palestinian minors remain in Israeli custody, many without formal charges.
The conditions in these prisons are very harsh. Children often share small spaces with many other detainees, sometimes even adults, which can be frightening and uncomfortable. Reports indicate that these children face mistreatment, including physical abuse and psychological stress. Many of them are held without formal charges or trials, a practice known as administrative detention. This means they do not know when they might be released, which can make them feel anxious and scared.
The impact of being in prison at such a young age can be very damaging. Children in these situations may experience feelings of sadness and loneliness, and they often miss their families and friends. The environment is not just physically tough but it can also affect their mental health.
Organizations like Defense for Children International – Palestine (DCIP), Save the Children, HaMoked, War Child, UNICEF are working to support these children and highlight that their rights are being violated. They remind us that every child deserves to feel safe and protected, no matter where they live. It’s important to understand that these children are caught in a difficult situation that affects their lives deeply.
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