Israeli Prosecutors Seek Witnesses Before Charging Guards in Death of Palestinian Prisoner

The Southern District Prosecutor's Office in Israel is preparing to file charges against 18 prison guards, including some soldiers seconded to the prison service, for the negligent killing and aggravated assault of a Palestinian prisoner. The incident occurred about a month after the October 7 attacks, when the guards allegedly beat a prisoner affiliated with Fatah who was serving a 25-year sentence. The prisoner later died from injuries sustained during the assault.

Before formally filing the indictment, prosecutors have requested to summon testimonies from several Palestinian security prisoners involved in the case. This request is unusual as charges have not yet been submitted, but prosecutors argue it is necessary because some of these prisoners are expected to be released soon and might not be available to testify later. Previously, a similar request was withdrawn after the court suggested prosecutors reconsider.

The guards deny any intent to kill, claiming their actions followed protocol during a riot in cell N12, where some security prisoners, including members of the Nukhba unit, had become unruly. Despite these defenses presented during hearings, the prosecution remains convinced of the guards' culpability and plans to proceed with indictments for negligent homicide and aggravated assault.

Prosecutors emphasize that the suspects and their lawyers have already reviewed the investigation materials and participated in hearings, strengthening the justification for early witness testimony collection. The case highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli prisons following heightened security incidents in the region.