Israeli Prosecution Seeks Witnesses Before Charging Guards in Death of Palestinian Prisoner

The Israeli Southern District Prosecutor's Office is preparing to indict 18 prison guards, including soldiers seconded to the prison service, on charges of negligent homicide and aggravated assault related to the death of a Palestinian prisoner. The incident occurred about a month after the October 7 attacks, when guards reportedly beat a security prisoner affiliated with Fatah, who later died from his injuries. The guards claim they acted according to protocol during a riot in cell N12 involving security prisoners, including members of the Nukhba unit. Despite their defense, the prosecution remains convinced of their culpability.

Before formally filing charges, the prosecution has requested to hear testimony from some of the security prisoners involved, fearing they may be released soon and unavailable for trial. This request was submitted to the court despite a previous similar request being withdrawn after judicial pushback. The prosecution argues that the current request is justified because the suspects and their lawyers have already reviewed the investigation materials and undergone hearings. The case is ongoing, with the prosecution intent on moving forward with indictments against the guards.