Israeli Supreme Court Reviews Petition to Expand Medical Treatment for Gaza Residents in Israel

The Israeli Supreme Court convened a panel of three judges to hear a petition filed by left-wing organizations, including "Physicians for Human Rights," demanding that Israel allow Gaza residents to receive medical treatment in Israeli hospitals. The petition initially contained serious allegations against IDF soldiers, which the judges requested to be removed before continuing the discussion.

During the hearing, state representatives emphasized that Israel already permits Gaza patients to seek medical care abroad after security checks and with the receiving country's consent. Data presented showed that 800 patients and companions exited through the Rafah crossing in February, 1,462 in March, and 1,820 in May. The state also sought to present classified security information to the court.

Despite the state's security concerns, the judges questioned why the number of patients allowed for treatment was not higher and suggested exploring mechanisms to address exceptional humanitarian cases. The defense establishment warned that expanding entry permits into Israel could be exploited for intelligence transfer and support to terrorist organizations.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir attended the hearing and criticized it as a misuse of the Supreme Court by left-wing groups, calling it a "scandal" and likening it to a biased referee in a soccer match. The court has yet to issue a ruling, but the hearing itself has sparked controversy and is seen as damaging to Israel and the IDF while encouraging left-wing activism.