Pregnant Palestinian women in Israeli prisons are facing harsh and deteriorating conditions, according to families and human rights groups, who warn that poor food, overcrowding, and lack of medical care are putting both mothers and unborn babies at risk.
Three pregnant detainees — Amina al-Taweel, Dana Joudeh, and Manar Karaja — are among 93 Palestinian women held in Israeli prisons. Their families say they are being denied proper nutrition, healthcare, and visits from relatives or international monitors.
One case highlighted is Manar Karaja, arrested during a West Bank raid while pregnant with her third child. Her husband says she is held in overcrowded cells, sleeps on the floor, and suffers constant pain, while receiving insufficient food and no proper medical support.
Dana Joudeh, five months pregnant, reportedly experienced fainting and dehydration after being detained shortly after discovering her pregnancy. Her family says she has not received adequate care despite previous surgery and ongoing health risks.
Another detainee, Amina al-Taweel, four months pregnant, is also said to be held in poor conditions while her family struggles without her. Families allege repeated raids, harsh interrogations, and deprivation of basic rights.
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club says pregnant detainees face degrading treatment, including overcrowding, poor hygiene, and limited medical attention. Human rights groups describe the wider prison system as involving collective punishment and denial of family visits.
According to Palestinian authorities, over 9,300 Palestinians are currently detained in Israeli prisons, including women and children, with many held without charge under renewable detention orders.
