A human rights group has filed a petition with Israel’s top court seeking information on the whereabouts of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, a prominent Palestinian hospital director detained by the Israeli military. Dr. Abu Safiya was last seen during an Israeli raid that closed Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last major functioning health facility in northern Gaza.
Former detainees released recently reported that Dr. Abu Safiya is being held at Sde Teiman, a military base in Israel’s Negev desert acting as a detention facility. The Israeli military initially denied his arrest but later stated that he was apprehended for suspected involvement in terrorist activities and holding a rank in the Hamas terror organization.
Israeli forces conducted an incursion in northern Gaza targeting Hamas, resulting in destruction, casualties, and depletion of essential supplies. Prior to his arrest, Dr. Abu Safiya had been advocating for the protection of health care facilities in Gaza and updating on the impact of attacks on patients and medical workers.
UN experts expressed grave concern over Dr. Abu Safiya's fate and urged Israeli authorities to respect the right to life. More than 1,057 Palestinian health professionals have been killed in Gaza, according to reports.
Physicians for Human Rights - Israel highlighted the lack of transparency in Israeli military's information on Palestinian detainees. Amnesty International also raised alarm over the risk of torture and ill-treatment faced by Dr. Abu Safiya, demanding clarity on his whereabouts.
