MSF reports humanitarian crisis and detention of medics in Gaza

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is calling for the release of Palestinian healthcare professionals detained by Israel and highlighting the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. MSF reports that over 1,700 health professionals have been killed during the conflict, while hundreds of others remain detained without formal charges.

One specific case highlighted is Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, a pediatrician and former director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, who has been held for over 18 months under Israel’s Illegal Combatants Law. MSF reports he is suffering from prolonged solitary confinement and untreated medical conditions. The organization is urging the World Medical Association to address the fate of these professionals at its upcoming assembly.

Additionally, MSF warns that the establishment of Israel’s ‘Yellow Line’ is effectively encircling and squeezing the Palestinian population into increasingly smaller areas. Occupying approximately 65 percent of Gaza, this military demarcation is disrupting essential services, including water trucking and medical assistance, while increasing the risk of violence for those living near the perimeter.