Statements or actions from international organizations such as WHO, UN, or major countries

Global Health Professionals Demand Release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, Director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, Detained by Israel Since December 27, 2024

Jan 3, 2025, 05:30 AM

Healthcare professionals worldwide are calling for the immediate release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza, who was detained by Israeli forces during a raid on the facility on December 27, 2024. The Israeli military has confirmed that Dr. Abu Safiya is in their custody and is being investigated for alleged involvement in 'terrorist activities.' In response to his detention, various medical organizations and UN experts have condemned the Israeli actions, labeling them a blatant violation of health rights. The Palestinian Prisoners’ Society has raised alarms over the potential risks to Dr. Abu Safiya's safety, citing fears of enforced disappearance or even execution. Despite video evidence of his arrest, the Israeli military has denied having any record of his detention, raising further concerns about his whereabouts. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted Gaza's healthcare system, with over 1,000 medical professionals reported killed and urgent medical evacuations stalled, according to the World Health Organization.