Gaza, MINA – Physicians for Human Rights has sounded the alarm over the critical health condition of Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, Director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, who has been detained by Israeli authorities since December 2024, Palestine Information Center reported.
Following a recent visit to Ofer Prison by the organization’s attorney, Nasser Odeh, it was revealed that Dr. Abu Safiya has not appeared before a judge since March and has not been subjected to any official interrogation. He has also not been informed of the reasons for his arrest.
The organization stated that Dr. Abu Safiya is being held in harsh conditions, where detainees suffer from severe food shortages. He has reportedly lost approximately 25 kilograms since his imprisonment and is living in unsanitary conditions, having contracted scabies alongside other prisoners.
Despite having a history of heart problems and high blood pressure, Dr. Abu Safiya has not received any medical examinations or specialist care. Although he has been provided with medication for his blood pressure, no Israeli prison doctor has assessed his health since his arrest.
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He has been forced to wear the same clothing since December, only receiving clean clothes just before the attorney’s visit. During the meeting, Dr. Abu Safiya expressed his belief that his detention is linked to his role as a doctor affiliated with the Gaza Ministry of Health. He appealed to international bodies to work toward his immediate release.
Physicians for Human Rights highlighted that Dr. Abu Safiya’s case reflects a broader pattern. The organization has documented the arbitrary detention of over 100 Palestinian medical workers from Gaza. Testimonies gathered from over 25 detainees describe violence during prison searches, denial of medical care, and lack of access to clean clothing and adequate food.
None of the detained medical staff have been formally charged, with some held for over a year, violating due process and undermining Gaza’s healthcare system.
Naji Abbas, head of the organization’s prisoner division, condemned the Israeli actions as a “moral and legal crime,” emphasizing the urgency for international intervention.
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Dr. Abu Safiya was arrested while on duty and classified by Israeli authorities as an “unlawful combatant” under military orders, bypassing standard legal proceedings. His personal tragedy is compounded by the loss of his son, who was killed by Israeli forces during the war. []
Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)
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