Dr. Hussam Abu Safia: A Year in Detention and the Fight for Justice

In Gaza City, the story of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, who has been held in Israeli custody for over a year without charges, is capturing international attention. As his health worsens amidst troubling prison conditions, his family and supporters are urgently calling for his release. This article explores the circumstances surrounding his detention, the impact on his family, and the broader implications for medical personnel in conflict zones.

The Deteriorating Health of a Dedicated Doctor

Dr. Abu Safia, a 52-year-old physician and the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, has become a symbol in the ongoing discussions about the protection of healthcare workers during armed conflicts. Despite the persistent threats of Israeli attacks on the hospital, he chose to remain on-site with his team, prioritizing patient care over his own safety. Eventually, Israeli forces encircled the hospital, leading to forced evacuations and Dr. Abu Safia’s subsequent detention.

Without any formal charges, Dr. Abu Safia is classified under the “unlawful combatant” law, which permits detention without trial and denies access to evidence. Reports indicate that he has lost more than a third of his body weight during his time in custody, facing severe health issues that include heart problems and skin infections. His family, particularly his eldest son Ilyas, is deeply concerned as they witness his condition deteriorate from afar.

The Family’s Agonizing Journey

After fleeing Gaza to Kazakhstan a month ago, Ilyas, 27, shared the family’s heartache over his father’s incarceration, saying, “His only ‘crime’ was being a doctor.” The family endured the Israeli attacks while supporting Dr. Abu Safia at Kamal Adwan, and they suffered further tragedy when Ilyas’s brother, Ibrahim, was killed in an attack on the hospital.

Chronicles of the Siege

On December 27, 2024, the situation at Kamal Adwan escalated dramatically. As Israeli tanks and drones closed in, Dr. Walid al-Badi, one of the hospital staff who remained with Dr. Abu Safia, described the chaos as loudspeakers demanded evacuations. Dr. Abu Safia remained resolute, urging others to stay calm amid the turmoil.

Eventually, he was ordered to leave the hospital, marking the beginning of a harrowing ordeal. Reports from al-Badi detail how Dr. Abu Safia was mistreated during his transfer to confinement, even as Israeli media portrayed a different narrative. When tasked with creating a list of hospital staff, Dr. Abu Safia complied, only to learn that most would have to evacuate.

A Desperate Situation for Healthcare Workers

Despite offers of safe passage, Dr. Abu Safia refused to abandon his staff and patients. The last evacuation was fraught with delays, and many medical professionals, including Dr. Mai Barhouma, insisted on remaining with their patients till the very end. However, the conditions turned dire as they were taken to al-Fakhoura School, where allegations of brutal treatment emerged. The medical personnel were subjected to violence and inhumane conditions during interrogations.

The Call for Dr. Abu Safia’s Release

Dr. Abu Safia’s family continues to advocate for his immediate release, reaching out to human rights organizations for assistance. Ilyas emphasized the deteriorating health of his father and the psychological strain of his detention. “Israel is attempting to criminalize his efforts to provide care during a time of crisis,” he stated, noting that his father’s dedication was seen as a challenge to the occupying forces.

As calls for justice resonate globally, Ilyas reflects on his father’s legacy, saying, “He is a doctor who embodies medical ethics and courage—an inspiration for many worldwide.”

Conclusion

The plight of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia represents not just a personal tragedy but a larger commentary on the treatment of healthcare providers in conflict zones. His family’s ongoing struggle highlights the urgent need for international advocacy and support for those who risk their lives for the health and well-being of others.

• Dr. Hussam Abu Safia has been detained for over a year without charges.
• His health is rapidly declining amidst reports of inhumane prison conditions.
• His family is actively campaigning for his release and advocating for medical professionals in conflict zones.
• Dr. Abu Safia’s case emphasizes the critical need for protecting healthcare workers during armed conflicts.