IDF Warns Gaza Residents of Hamas Torture Amid Power Struggles

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson in Arabic, Ella Avuya, issued an urgent warning to residents of the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, alerting them to increased torture and interrogations by Hamas. Since the ceasefire took effect in October 2025, the IDF and Shin Bet have observed Hamas intensifying harsh interrogations and torture against Gaza civilians as part of efforts to consolidate its control.

Avuya detailed that Hamas is conducting severe interrogations involving physical violence, psychological abuse, extortion, threats, prolonged isolation, and mental harm. These actions target civilians across all social groups, including children and women, and often take place in public facilities such as schools, hospitals, mosques, and government buildings, which Hamas exploits for military purposes.

The spokesperson emphasized that these arbitrary arrests and systematic torture are not limited to political opponents but also affect ordinary residents summoned for questioning. Avuya condemned Hamas for perpetuating violence and destruction in Gaza, stating that the terror group continues to harm the population and devastate their lives despite the ceasefire.

In closing, Avuya urged Gaza residents to be cautious, highlighting that the ongoing violence and torture by Hamas are causing severe damage and destroying lives in the Strip.