Israeli Health Ministry Chief Supports Rambam Hospital Amid Allegations Over Wounded Soldiers' Care

Moshe Bar Siman-Tov, Director-General of Israel's Ministry of Health, visited Rambam Hospital in Haifa on Tuesday following allegations concerning the treatment of severely wounded IDF soldiers hospitalized there after combat in Lebanon. During his visit, Bar Siman-Tov met with the injured soldiers' families and hospital staff, offering full backing to the hospital administration and emphasizing the healthcare system's commitment to providing optimal care to all patients.

The controversy arose after family members of one soldier claimed that after he regained consciousness, they were removed from the ward at night and locked out, with requests to check on him denied. They also alleged that the soldier was left unattended while requesting water and was roughly moved in his bed. The family noted that the medical staff on duty spoke Arabic, which caused unease, though the accuser clarified he did not question the professionalism of all Arabic-speaking staff but demanded a thorough investigation including security footage review.

In response, Rambam Hospital conducted an internal inquiry and rejected the allegations of improper treatment. The hospital highlighted that during the conflict, hundreds of wounded soldiers, including many in critical condition, were treated by both Jewish and Arab medical teams. The soldier in question was weaned off ventilation and later transferred to Sheba Medical Center as his condition improved.

Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the IDF to urgently and thoroughly investigate the claims regarding the care and treatment of the soldiers and their families. Bar Siman-Tov stressed the importance of coexistence within the healthcare system, calling it an ideal rather than a necessity, and praised the dedication of medical teams from all sectors. He affirmed that the hospital staff are committed to delivering the best possible treatment and rehabilitation to every wounded soldier.

Bar Siman-Tov concluded by expressing confidence in Rambam's management and staff, stating that the hospital's director had professionally examined the complaints and dismissed them, and he fully supports the hospital's ongoing care for all patients.