Testimonies emerging from inside Damon Prison reveal harrowing conditions faced by Palestinian women detainees, shedding light on what advocacy groups call systematic violations of basic human rights.

Detainees describe frequent raids, including three in just one week on Room 5 of the women’s section—sparked by incidents as trivial as a prisoner laughing. During these raids, personal items were seized, including the section’s only wall clock, leaving prisoners unable to track prayer or mealtimes. Lights are cut at 9:30 p.m., plunging cells into darkness without warning.

Adding to their hardship, prison authorities confiscated winter clothing in early May, replacing it with lighter garments. Some women were left with no alternatives, forced to endure fluctuating temperatures in unsuitable clothing.

Hunger is another constant. Prisoners report being given just five small slices of bread per day, often saving them to ration hunger throughout the day. Hygiene conditions are equally degrading—only 15 loofahs are shared among dozens of women, undermining their health and dignity.

Religious and medical needs are largely ignored. A shortage of prayer garments has forced some women to use bed sheets during prayer, while others suffering from serious illnesses have had their treatment delayed or denied entirely.

The Palestinian Prisoners Media Office is calling on international human rights bodies, women’s organisations, and UN agencies to investigate the conditions and demand justice for the women held under such degrading circumstances