Rambam Hospital Director Denies Allegations Over IDF Soldier Treatment

Dr. Michal Makel, director of Rambam Medical Center, has firmly rejected claims regarding the treatment of an IDF soldier severely wounded during the Lebanon conflict. Following a comprehensive internal investigation, she stated that no evidence supports the accusations made against the hospital or its medical staff. Dr. Makel emphasized that the soldier and his family expressed gratitude to the medical team upon his discharge.

The inquiry included interviews with all staff on duty during the incident, confirming that the intensive care unit operates under strict professional standards observed nationally and internationally. Family presence was limited temporarily to ensure urgent medical care and patient privacy. Dr. Makel addressed allegations of aggressive handling, explaining that repositioning critically ill patients is a sensitive medical procedure often necessary for treatment, sometimes causing pain despite pain management.

Responding to claims about staff identities, she highlighted the diverse makeup of the team, including members from various Israeli communities, such as an Arab nurse serving in reserves and a medic wearing a kippah. She stressed that Rambam evaluates personnel solely on professionalism, not background. The public uproar has deeply affected the dedicated staff caring for numerous IDF casualties since the war began.

Following threatening calls, hate mail, and attempts by civilians to enter the ward shouting, security was increased with a guard stationed at the department entrance. The hospital also provided psychological support for employees. Dr. Makel concluded by reaffirming Rambam’s excellent cooperation with the IDF and its commitment to delivering the highest quality medical care to all patients regardless of identity.