Department of Research, Studies and International News 30-12-2024

Amid escalating tensions in Gaza, the detention of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, the director of one of the few remaining operational hospitals in northern Gaza, has drawn widespread concern. The arrest follows an Israeli military raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, one of the last lifelines for medical care in the region. The incident has not only disrupted critical healthcare services but also raised questions about the safety of medical personnel in conflict zones.

The Arrest of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia

Dr. Abu Safia, a 51-year-old pediatrician, was apprehended on Friday during an Israeli military raid that targeted Kamal Adwan Hospital. Reports indicate that the military forcibly removed dozens of doctors and patients from the facility. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that it lost all contact with Dr. Abu Safia following the raid. Witnesses, including the Gaza Ministry of Health, alleged that he was subjected to severe physical abuse by Israeli forces. According to Munir al-Barsh, the director general of Gaza’s Ministry of Health, Dr. Abu Safia was beaten with batons and coerced to wear prisoner attire after being stripped of his clothing.

This is not the first time Dr. Abu Safia has been detained by Israeli forces. In late October, he was briefly arrested during another raid on the same hospital. These actions are part of a broader military campaign that has heavily impacted northern Gaza.

Dr. Abu Safia: A Pillar of Gaza’s Healthcare

Born on November 21, 1973, in the Jabalia refugee camp, Dr. Hussam Abu Safia has long been a central figure in Gaza’s healthcare system. His family was originally displaced from the Palestinian town of Hamama in 1948, reflecting a personal history deeply intertwined with the broader Palestinian struggle.

Dr. Abu Safia, known affectionately as “Abu Elias,” holds advanced qualifications in pediatrics and neonatology, including a master’s degree and a Palestinian board certification. Despite immense challenges, he has consistently served his community, even as Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure has faced severe constraints under Israeli-imposed blockades.

Defiance Amid Devastation

The ongoing siege of northern Gaza, which began on October 5, has left the region in dire straits. Israel’s blockade has cut off essential supplies, including food and water, while relentless airstrikes and shelling have claimed hundreds of civilian lives. Kamal Adwan Hospital, where Dr. Abu Safia serves, has been a focal point of resistance against these measures.

In October, during a raid on the hospital, Israeli forces detained 44 staff members. Dr. Abu Safia and a small group of medical workers refused to leave, staying behind to care for the injured despite the overwhelming odds. Tragically, during this period, his son Ibrahim was killed in a drone strike near the hospital’s gate. Dr. Abu Safia led funeral prayers for his son in the hospital courtyard, accusing Israeli forces of targeting Ibrahim as an act of retribution.

Injuries and Resilience

On November 23, Dr. Abu Safia sustained injuries from shrapnel during an Israeli drone attack while exiting the operating room. Despite six shrapnel wounds to his thigh, which caused significant vascular damage, he remained resolute. “This will not stop us,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to his work. He viewed his injuries as a testament to his dedication, stating, “My blood is no more precious than that of my colleagues or the people we serve.”

Dr. Abu Safia’s refusal to leave the hospital not only symbolized defiance but also served as a beacon of hope for many. Through video statements and pleas for international intervention, he kept the world informed about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The Unknown Fate of Dr. Abu Safia

The exact whereabouts and condition of Dr. Abu Safia remain unknown. His arrest has sparked international concern, with human rights organizations calling for his immediate release. His unwavering commitment to his patients and his role as a vocal advocate for Gaza’s besieged population have made him a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.

As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the detention of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia underscores the profound challenges faced by medical professionals working in conflict zones and the urgent need for global action to protect healthcare workers and facilities.