A prominent surgeon in Gaza, Dr. Adnan Al-Bursh, head of orthopedics at Al-Shifa Hospital, has tragically passed away in an Israeli prison after being detained for over four months. The Palestinian Prisoners’ Society and the Commission of Detainees’ Affairs confirmed his death on April 19 at Ofer prison in the occupied West Bank.
Dr. Al-Bursh was arrested during the Israeli military ground invasion of the Jabalya refugee camp in December, along with 10 other medical workers. He was taken into custody while treating patients at Al-Awda Hospital, as reported by Palestinian sources.
The prisoner associations have accused Israel of a “systematic targeting process against physicians and the health care system in Gaza,” holding them responsible for Dr. Al-Bursh’s untimely demise.
Al-Shifa Hospital's director, Dr. Marwan Abu Saada, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Dr. Al-Bursh as a beloved figure who was dedicated to his patients and colleagues.
Concerns over the treatment of detainees in Israeli custody have been raised, with allegations of torture and abuse. While the IDF maintains that detainees are treated in accordance with international law, reports from released Palestinians suggest otherwise.
The release of dozens of Gaza detainees and the return of Ismail Khadr’s body, another Palestinian who died in Israeli custody, have further fueled tensions. The total number of Palestinian detainees who have died in Israeli custody has now reached 18 since October 7.
Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of casualties and widespread devastation. The health system in Gaza is on the verge of collapse, prompting international criticism of Israel’s actions in and around hospitals.
As the situation in Gaza remains dire, calls for a ceasefire have intensified to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian population.
