At least 94 Palestinian prisoners and detainees have died in Israeli custody in less than two years, a well-regarded Israeli human rights group says.

A new report by Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) alleges a practice of systematic killings and cover-ups.

The report covers the period between 7 October 2023, when Hamas launched its deadly attack on Israel, sparking the latest conflict in Gaza, and 31 August 2025. It said fewer than 30 Palestinians died in Israeli custody in the 10 years prior.

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) told the BBC it operates in accordance with the law and under the supervision of official oversight bodies.

It said it did not comment on figures or allegations from outside bodies.

Since 7 October 2023, thousands of Palestinians have been detained across Gaza and the West Bank, many without charge.

PHRI said it had exposed a deeply concerning pattern of systemic human rights violations committed against Palestinians detained by Israel and classified as security prisoners.

Israeli authorities have stopped providing information about Palestinians in custody to the Red Cross and barred access to detention facilities.

PHRI’s report is based on official records and data cross-referenced with forensic reports, information from other human rights groups, and testimonies from detainees and their families.

The report states 52 of those who died were held in military prisons, while 42 died in civilian jails run by the IPS.

It claims the deaths were caused by physical violence, medical neglect, or both.

The PHRI report singles out the policies of Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's right-wing national security minister, claiming that under his control, Israeli facilities have become sites of torture and abuse.

The highest number of deaths, 29, occurred at the Sde Teiman military prison, noted for alarming incidents of violence against detainees.

In stark contrast, the IPS states that every death is examined in accordance with established procedures and referred to the relevant authorities.

This report sheds light on the grim reality facing thousands of Palestinians in Israeli custody, amidst widespread allegations of abuse and neglect, raising urgent calls for accountability and reform within the Israeli prison system.