Gaza Herald – Physicians for Human Rights–Israel (PHRI) says the Israeli government’s response to a Supreme Court petition seeking the release of 14 detained Palestinian doctors from Gaza raises serious concerns about the health of imprisoned physician Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, arguing that it fails to address reports regarding his medical condition.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the organization said the government claimed an internal review found no indication that Abu Safiya’s life was in danger. It also stated that he had undergone several medical examinations since being transferred to the underground “Rakevet” wing of Nitzan Prison. However, the response did not explain why the examinations were conducted, what their findings were, or how they supported the government’s assertion that his life was not at risk.
PHRI said the government’s submission ignored any report contained in a sworn affidavit filed by Abu Safiya’s lawyer, Nasser Odeh, who reported that the doctor had been subjected to repeated assaults, suffered injuries to his head and neck, experienced breathing difficulties and recurrent loss of consciousness, and feared for his life while in detention.
The organization added that Israeli occupation have yet to approve Odeh’s request for a second prison visit, have not released Abu Safiya’s medical records despite a formal request, and have rejected calls for an independent medical examination or access by an independent body to assess his condition.
Separately, the Israeli government asked the Supreme Court to dismiss the petition filed by PHRI without holding a hearing, arguing there was no legal basis to revoke the detention orders issued against the 14 Palestinian doctors.
PHRI rejected the government’s position, saying the continued detention of the doctors without charge or trial disregards the severe shortage of medical personnel in Gaza and raises serious concerns about respect for fundamental legal safeguards.
The organization called for an independent medical examination of Dr. Abu Safiya, an urgent judicial review of his condition, and an expedited court hearing on the petition seeking the release of the 14 detained Palestinian doctors.
