Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) has called for the immediate release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, citing his life is in “imminent danger” while in Israeli custody. A lawyer’s recent visit revealed Dr. Abu Safiya’s severe physical decline, including visible injuries, extreme weakness, and psychological distress. He has been detained without charge since December 27, 2024, under the Unlawful Combatants Law, which allows prolonged detention without due process. Despite no evidence against him, his detention was extended in June 2026. MAP’s CEO emphasized the need for urgent action from the UK government, highlighting the broader issue of mistreatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody.
Why It Matters
Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya’s case represents a concerning trend regarding the treatment of Palestinian detainees, especially healthcare workers, under Israeli law. Since October 2023, over 612 healthcare professionals have been detained, with reports of severe mistreatment, including torture and denial of medical care. Human rights organizations and UN experts have documented these abuses, raising alarms about potential war crimes. The ongoing conflict and the systemic challenges faced by healthcare providers in Gaza exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, making the protection of medical personnel critical to the region’s stability.
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