An Israeli rights organization, Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI), has voiced concerns about the health of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, a jailed director of Gaza's Kamal Adwan Hospital, as Israeli military operations persist in the region. The PHRI contends that the arbitrary detention of Gaza medical professionals, including Dr. Abu Safia, infringes upon individual rights and weakens the healthcare system in the area.
On Wednesday, two Israeli courts dismissed petitions seeking the release of 14 imprisoned doctors from Gaza, without charges or a trial, and allowing Dr. Abu Safia access to an independent medical examination. The PHRI obtained an independent medical review of Abu Safia’s records, which revealed a significant weight loss, drops in haemoglobin levels, and unaddressed chest pain.
The PHRI asserts that the Israel Prison Service has denied releasing Dr. Abu Safia's latest medical file, preventing him from receiving an independent examination. Naji Abbas of the PHRI stated, "Not only is he being deprived of his freedom without trial, but he is also being denied his basic right to an independent medical examination."
Israeli authorities arrested Dr. Abu Safia in December 2024 during a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. The PHRI reported that the Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking the release of 14 doctors, including hospital directors and specialists in essential medical fields, who have been held without charges or trial for prolonged periods, violating their individual rights and further exacerbating Gaza’s existing shortage of medical professionals.
Meanwhile, reports from al-Shifa Hospital indicate that a Palestinian was killed, and others injured, due to an Israeli drone attack in western Gaza City. Another Palestinian died from injuries sustained during an Israeli attack on a family home in Gaza City on Tuesday. The healthcare sector in Gaza has been severely impacted by Israel's military operations since October 2023, with nearly 90 percent of its overall infrastructure either damaged or destroyed. Despite last year’s alleged "ceasefire," Gaza continues to face regular Israeli attacks, resulting in more than 1,600 Palestinian deaths since the United States-brokered agreement, according to the territory's Ministry of Health.