Death of Longest-Serving Palestinian Prisoner in Israel Ignites Controversy
Walid Daqqa, convicted for involvement in the murder of an Israeli soldier, dies of cancer after 38 years in custody, sparking debate over prisoner rights and humanitarian concerns.
- Walid Daqqa, a Palestinian convicted of involvement in the killing of an Israeli soldier, died of cancer at 62 after spending 38 years in Israeli custody.
- Amnesty International mourned Daqqa's death, highlighting it as evidence of Israel's 'disregard for Palestinians' right to life,' while critics accuse the organization of ignoring Daqqa's terrorist activities.
- Daqqa's death has reignited discussions on the treatment of Palestinian prisoners, with allegations of medical neglect and human rights violations by Israeli authorities.
- Despite being diagnosed with bone marrow cancer in 2020, Daqqa's appeals for early release on humanitarian grounds were rejected, leading to his death in prison.
- The incident has sparked polarized reactions, with Daqqa viewed as a symbol of Palestinian struggle by some and as a terrorist by others, including the family of the Israeli soldier he was convicted of killing.