Israeli Court Denies Medical Exam for Detained Gaza Doctor

An Israeli district court recently rejected a petition for an independent medical examination of Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza. Abu Safiya has been held in an Israeli prison without charge for nearly 23 months after being detained on December 27, 2024, and classified as an unlawful combatant.

Currently held in solitary confinement at Rakefet prison, Abu Safiya has reportedly suffered beatings and severe food deprivation. Professor Amit Tirosh, an independent specialist who reviewed the doctor's medical records, warned that a 14kg weight loss, dropping hemoglobin levels, and untreated chest pain could be life-threatening.

The Supreme Court of Israel previously rejected a petition for Abu Safiya's release. In response to the allegations of abuse, the Israeli Prison Service stated that it operates in accordance with the law and under constant judicial oversight, claiming the reports are part of a broader campaign aimed at discrediting the state of Israel.