The Maan news agency reported that other inmates will join the strike in rejection of mistreatment and call for an international investigation into the actions of the Israel Prison Service (IPS), especially in Damon Prison.

The media warned about an escalation in those penitentiaries after Palestinian prisoners´ decisions to join the protest in defense of their companions.

On the other hand, the Israeli newspaper The Jerusalem Post confirmed the beginning of the hunger strike this morning “over alleged abuse and mistreatment to female prisoners.”

The newspaper noted that an IPS member was stabbed by an Islamic Resistance Movement militiaman at Nafkha prison on Monday in retaliation for women abuse and mistreatment.

Palestinian factions called for a “day of wrath” coming Friday, after praying, both in the West Bank and in the Gaza Strip in support of female prisoners.

The Palestinian Prisoners Club reported on Wednesday that the detainees began a first phase of protest that includes food refusal, even though they threatened to start an open riot if IPS increases its attacks.

The Palestinian Society of Prisoners condemned days ago that Damon Prison officers imposed several measures against inmates including depriving them of visits, prohibition of acquiring items at the dining room, and fines.

Faced with this situation, the female prisoners started off by rioting actions such as knocking on cell doors, refusing the food, as well as ignoring internal laws.

mh/pll / rgh / rob