Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, a physician who has been a key figure in documenting the struggles of Gaza's healthcare system, was arrested by Israeli forces on Friday. His detention follows months of intense conflict, during which he worked tirelessly to treat patients despite ongoing challenges.
The arrest occurred after Israeli soldiers stormed the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of several individuals and the detention of over 240 people. Among those detained were patients, medical staff, and Dr. Abu Safiya, a pediatrician and the hospital’s director. Detainees were reportedly subjected to harsh conditions before being transferred to Israeli prisons.
Dr. Abu Safiya also serves as the lead physician for the U.S.-based medical aid group MedGlobal, who have called for his immediate release. His arrest has amplified concerns about the safety and treatment of medical professionals in conflict zones.
Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last functioning facility in northern Gaza, has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict. Despite limited resources and increasing casualties, Dr. Abu Safiya managed to expand the hospital’s capacity and share updates on the conditions, providing a crucial voice for those affected by the violence.
The Israel Defense Forces stated that Dr. Abu Safiya is a “suspect” in connection to possible terrorist activity, though no specific details have been released, however these claims have been heavily scrutinized by humanitarian organizations. The hospital had previously been searched by the IDF on four occasions, which raised concerns that these claims are baseless.
According to eyewitness accounts, Dr. Abu Safiya was initially told he was free to leave but refused, choosing instead to stay with his medical team. He was later taken into custody, and it is reported he was last seen entering an Israeli tank. His current whereabouts remain unconfirmed, though reports suggest he was moved to the Sde Teiman prison, known for its brutal conditions.
Reports of mistreatment and torture have emerged, with his son Idris Abu Safiya detailing in a video that his father has been subjected to “humiliation and abuse.” These accounts highlight the severe and inhumane conditions faced by detainees, particularly healthcare workers.
International organizations like the World Health Organization and Amnesty International have condemned the detention and called for Dr. Abu Safiya’s immediate release. They have also demanded an end to the targeting of hospitals and healthcare personnel. These groups, along with Dr. Abu Safiya’s family and MedGlobal, are seeking intervention from global leaders to pressure the Israeli government for his release.
