Global Campaign Demands Release of Gaza Hospital Director Detained in Israel Amid Abuse Claims
Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, has been detained in Israel for over 18 months without trial. International media outlets have launched a campaign calling for his release, highlighting his deteriorated physical and mental condition, while Israeli authorities remain largely silent. Abu Safiya's lawyer, Nasser Odeh, has described his client as severely weakened, suffering from injuries and systematic mistreatment in Israeli prisons, including transfer to the notorious underground Rakefet prison.
Palestinian organizations allege that Abu Safiya faces harsh detention conditions and torture aimed at breaking him physically and mentally. Reports indicate he was beaten by guards shortly after a video court hearing and has been held in isolation since May. His lawyer warns of an immediate danger to his life, citing daily beatings and episodes of unconsciousness. The Rakefet facility, reopened under Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, is known for its inhumane conditions and has housed Palestinian prisoners linked to recent attacks.
Despite these allegations, Israeli prison authorities have denied the claims as baseless and refused to comment on Abu Safiya's health. Abu Safiya was arrested during an Israeli military raid on the hospital in December 2024, amid accusations that Hamas militants operated within the hospital premises. Israeli officials assert that Abu Safiya was involved in Hamas activities, including appearances in official events and wearing the group's uniform, as documented by the New York Post.
International human rights groups and media outlets like The Guardian and CNN have spotlighted Abu Safiya as a symbol of medical personnel striving to provide care under wartime conditions in Gaza. Social media influencers in Gaza portray him as a dedicated pediatrician who risked his life to treat patients during intense conflict. Israeli authorities maintain he remains in custody for ongoing investigation and is excluded from prisoner release deals due to the severity of the charges against him.
The campaign continues to gain traction globally, emphasizing the urgent need for his release and raising concerns about the treatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons.
