Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safia has alleged that he continues to face beatings, sleep deprivation and threats while in Israeli detention, according to his lawyer, renewing concerns over his health and safety.
Abu Safia, who headed Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, was detained by Israeli forces on December 27, 2024, after refusing to evacuate the medical facility. He has since been held without formal charges or a trial.
Doctor describes continued abuse in detention
According to Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI), Abu Safia shared his latest account with lawyer Nasser Odeh, who visited him at the Rakefet detention facility inside Nitzan Prison on Sunday.
The doctor reportedly said prison guards continued to punch and kick him and beat him with batons. He also alleged that loudspeakers and other noise were deliberately used throughout the night to prevent him from sleeping.
Abu Safia further claimed that guards threatened him over speaking about his detention conditions to his lawyer.
His allegations come amid longstanding concerns over his physical condition. PHRI said his lawyer had previously reported seeing serious bruising around his head, eyes, ears and neck.
Calls grow for independent medical examination
Abu Safia was transferred on August 10 from the Rakefet facility to the prison service’s medical centre at Ramla prison. PHRI said the transfer indicated that he had serious medical needs requiring specialised attention.
The organisation has sought an independent physician to examine him, but said its request to the Israel Prison Service, submitted on July 7, had not yet been approved.
PHRI has also taken legal action seeking better protection and medical care for the doctor, while describing further delays as unjustified.
UN and rights groups demand his release
In July, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory called for Abu Safia’s immediate release and urged Israeli authorities to provide him with independent medical care.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also raised concerns over his detention and alleged mistreatment.
Abu Safia is being held under Israel’s combatant law, which allows Palestinians from Gaza to be detained for extended periods without an indictment or trial based on classified evidence.
PHRI said at least 13 other Palestinian doctors from Gaza have also been imprisoned for more than a year and a half without charges or due process. The organisation has called for the release of all 14 doctors, including Abu Safia, so they can return to their families and medical duties.