Gaza Doctor Hossam Abu Safiya Appears Handcuffed in Israeli Court

Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, was shown hand‑cuffed and leg‑shackled while appearing before Israel’s Supreme Court via video link. The appearance, his first public one since his arrest on 27 December 2024 during a raid on the hospital, came after his lawyer petitioned the court and the judiciary barred journalists from the hearing.

Human‑rights groups and United Nations officials say Abu Safiya’s health has sharply deteriorated in detention: he has lost significant weight, suffers from chronic illnesses, and lacks adequate medical care and drinking water. Amnesty International and other NGOs have called for his immediate release, warning that his life may be at risk.

Israeli authorities have extended his detention without publicizing formal charges, citing security concerns. The case has drawn international attention to the broader treatment of Palestinian detainees and the medical humanitarian situation in Gaza.