The number of Palestinians dying in Israeli detention has surged to nearly 100 since the outbreak of the Gaza war, according to a report by Physicians for Human Rights-Israel (PHRI), citing systemic abuse and denial of medical care in prisons and detention centers.

The report, released Monday, aligns with findings from The Associated Press, which interviewed former guards, nurses, doctors, detainees, and relatives, and analyzed autopsy and prison records. One former military prison guard described routine shackling, beatings, and a facility nicknamed a “graveyard” due to frequent deaths.

PHRI recorded 98 deaths since October 7, 2023, with 27 in 2023, 50 in 2024, and 21 this year. The organization noted the actual toll is likely higher, as Israel has withheld information on many detainees. By contrast, fewer than 30 Palestinians died in custody during the previous decade.

Prison conditions deteriorated as the population doubled to 11,000, primarily from Gaza and the West Bank. Reports highlighted abuse, malnutrition, and medical neglect, with some injuries severe enough to require amputations. Former prisoners recounted witnessing deaths from beatings and starvation, while lawyers said serious investigations into abuse are rare.

The Israeli army and Prison Service said detainees are examined by doctors, receive three meals daily, and that violations of conduct are punished, though they declined to comment on the death toll. PHRI called the situation “alarming” and indicative of a system lacking moral and professional restraint.