An Israeli non-profit organization, Physicians for Human Rights Israel, has filed a petition with the country's Supreme Court to halt the government's plan to repatriate Palestinian patients receiving medical treatment in East Jerusalem back to Gaza. The organization's spokesperson, Ran Yaron, stated that the decision to take legal action was prompted by a report highlighting the risks faced by the patients.
Physicians for Human Rights Israel emphasized that sending residents back to Gaza during a military conflict and humanitarian crisis violates international law and endangers innocent lives, especially those in need of urgent medical care due to poor conditions in Gaza.
Approximately two dozen Palestinian patients, including newborns, cancer survivors, and their companions, are scheduled to be transported to Gaza, although the process has been delayed twice without explanation. Some patients expressed mixed emotions about returning to Gaza, citing concerns for their safety and the well-being of their families.
The organization criticized the lack of a written directive from security officials, suggesting an attempt to evade accountability for the potentially illegal actions. Hospital officials have been in contact with COGAT, the Israeli defense ministry body overseeing Palestinian affairs, to coordinate the patients' return.
Dr. Fadi Atrash, CEO of Augusta Victoria Hospital treating Gazan cancer patients, expressed frustration over the government's insistence on repatriating patients who may still require medical care. COGAT confirmed that patients no longer in need of treatment are being sent back to Gaza, with arrangements made for those requiring further medical attention.
