Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, a Palestinian pediatrician and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, has been held by Israel since December 27, 2024, without formal charges under the country’s unlawful combatant law [1, 2, 3]. He was detained during an Israeli military raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last functioning hospital in northern Gaza at the time [1, 2, 3].
Since his detention, Abu Safia has faced allegations of beatings, torture, and severe violence, including injuries to his eye, head, chest, and fractured ribs [1, 2, 3]. His physical health has deteriorated sharply, sparking international concern over his wellbeing [1, 2, 3]. His lawyer’s visit in July 2026 revealed clear signs of mistreatment and torture [1, 2, 3].
Israel views Abu Safia as an illegal combatant, accusing him of Hamas involvement, though no formal charges have been filed [2, 3, 1]. Israel’s Supreme Court rejected his appeal for release in June 2026 [1, 2, 3]. Over 240 suspected Hamas and Islamic Jihad members were captured during the hospital raid, which preceded the evacuation of approximately 350 patients and medical staff [2, 3].
Human rights organizations including Amnesty International, UN bodies, and Doctors Without Borders have condemned Abu Safia’s arbitrary detention and called for his immediate release [1, 2, 3]. The UN Human Rights Office and the International Commission of Inquiry urged Israel in July 2026 to release detained Palestinian healthcare workers, including Abu Safia [2, 3].
The Gaza Ministry of Health and its director general, Dr. Muneer al-Boursh, have publicly appealed for an urgent medical examination and treatment for Abu Safia. Dr. al-Boursh said, "Dr Hussam Abu Safia, who stayed by his patients’ side at Kamal Adwan Hospital in the bleakest of circumstances, now finds himself behind bars, stripped of his freedom, as fears grow for his physical safety and detention conditions" [1]. He added, "We hold the [Israeli] occupation authorities fully responsible for his life and safety, and we demand an urgent, independent and comprehensive medical examination for him, ensuring he receives the necessary treatment" [1].
Abu Safia became internationally known after a viral photo showed him in a white coat confronting an Israeli tank during the hospital raid [2, 3]. As of August 2026, he has been detained nearly 600 days [2, 3].
His case remains a flashpoint amid ongoing conflict. No new release hearing dates have been announced following the Supreme Court’s June 16, 2026 rejection of his appeal [1, 2, 3].
