US Lawmakers Urge Rubio to Secure Release of Gaza Hospital Director

Sixty-nine members of the U.S. Congress, including 66 representatives and three senators, have called on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to pressure Israel into releasing Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. Abu Safia has been detained by the Israeli military since December 2024, held for over 500 days without charges or trial, according to the appeal initiated by Representatives Maxine Dexter and Raul Ruiz. The lawmakers expressed concern over Abu Safia's health, urging Rubio to ensure he receives necessary medical care and to end his "effectively indefinite detention." The appeal states, "Nothing absolves any government of its obligation to provide detainees with basic medical care and due process." The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) previously stated that Abu Safia was detained on suspicion of involvement in terrorist activities and holding a position within Hamas. Evidence was presented suggesting Abu Safia was a senior member of the terrorist organization, holding a rank comparable to a colonel. The doctor, his family, and his defense representatives deny these allegations. In June, the Israeli Supreme Court rejected his request for release. Human rights organizations claim Abu Safia's condition has deteriorated in detention and that he is not receiving adequate medical attention. The Israel Prison Service has previously denied accusations of mistreatment, starvation, and denial of treatment.