Freed Palestinian Prisoner Details Harrowing Ordeal in Israeli Prisons

Khalil Muslim Barq’ah, a Palestinian prisoner freed after two decades in Israeli custody, described his release as a testament to the resilience of the Palestinian resistance and the sacrifices of the people of Gaza.

Barq’ah, who endured 20 years of imprisonment under severe conditions, spoke to Anadolu Agency about the torment he faced, including physical abuse, starvation, and relentless mental distress. “I was sentenced to 20 life terms and served 20 years of that sentence. Today, I am free, and my chains have been broken thanks to the resistance,” he stated.

Arrested on July 26, 2002, for alleged involvement in an operation in occupied Jerusalem, Barq’ah was released on Saturday as part of a prisoner exchange deal mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the US. The agreement, which coincided with a ceasefire, saw the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners, including 30 serving life terms, in exchange for four Israeli soldiers detained by Hamas.

A Story of Suffering and Resilience

Barq’ah recounted the dire conditions in Israeli prisons, describing them as “graveyards for the living.” He noted the extreme hardships endured by detainees, from physical torture to inadequate food and medical care. “Our faces show the torment and abuse we endured. We lost significant weight due to torture, beatings, and starvation,” he said.

Despite his deteriorated health, which includes disc issues and a stomach ulcer, Barq’ah remains steadfast in his commitment to the Palestinian cause. “Our faith in our just cause and the support of our people gave us strength. We are people of justice, and we will continue to fight for our rights,” he added.

Barq’ah expressed gratitude to Gaza’s people and paid tribute to those who facilitated the prisoner exchange deal. “We owe this freedom to their resilience and sacrifice and pray for the martyrs who gave their lives for our cause.”

Ongoing Struggles

While celebrating his freedom, Barq’ah highlighted the plight of more than 10,300 Palestinian prisoners still held in Israeli custody, many under harsh conditions. “They live under extremely harsh conditions, waiting for their own freedom,” he said.

The ceasefire, part of a three-phase agreement, has brought temporary relief to Gaza following devastating violence that killed over 47,000 Palestinians and injured more than 111,000 since October 2023. The deal aims to establish a permanent truce and facilitate Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza.

The conflict and its humanitarian toll have drawn international scrutiny. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November for Israeli leaders over alleged war crimes in Gaza, while Israel faces genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice.