Gaza: Palestinian doctor and prisoner Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, has accused Israeli prison guards of repeatedly assaulting him and threatening him into silence about the conditions of his detention.
According to Anadolu Agency, Abu Safiya shared his ordeal during a recent testimony conveyed through his attorney. He has been detained by Israel without charge or trial since December 2024. The doctor reported being subjected to physical abuse, including being punched, kicked, and beaten with batons. Additionally, he claimed that he has been intentionally deprived of sleep through persistent noise and loudspeakers throughout the night.
An independent medical examination of Abu Safiya has been sought by Physicians for Human Rights Israel, who are pursuing legal proceedings to allow internist Amit Tirosh to examine him. Despite a request made on July 7, permission has not been granted. The group has petitioned an Israeli administrative court, while the Israel Prison Service has requested more time to respond. The organization has emphasized the urgency of the situation, arguing there is no justification for further delay.
Abu Safiya reported being transferred from the Rakefet facility, where he was held in solitary confinement, to the medical center at Ramla prison on August 10. During his week-long stay, tests revealed multiple health issues. The transfer itself is seen as indicative of serious medical needs that require independent medical assessment. Official records show an injury to Abu Safiya's left eye and complaints regarding injuries to his head and chest.
The organization stated that Abu Safiya's latest testimony confirms ongoing mistreatment and highlights the need for further medical examinations and treatment, which are currently being delayed by the prison service.
In a related legal matter, Israel's Supreme Court has requested clarification from authorities by September 13 on a request to release 14 Palestinian doctors from the Gaza Strip, including Abu Safiya, who are held without charge or trial. The court has asked whether the Israeli army chief of staff or an authorized official has specifically considered their release, taking into account their status as medical professionals.
Abu Safiya was arrested on December 27, 2024, during a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital by Israeli forces. The facility was destroyed and rendered inoperable during the raid. Currently, Israel holds over 9,400 prisoners, including 92 women and more than 370 children. Rights groups report that detainees have faced torture, starvation, and medical neglect, resulting in numerous deaths. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to the deaths of more than 73,000 Palestinians, with over 174,000 injured, predominantly women and children, and has devastated about 90% of the territory's infrastructure.