Israel tells court detained Gazan doctor's life not in danger

The Israeli government has informed the Supreme Court that detained Gazan doctor Hussam Abu Safiya is not in danger, despite claims from his lawyer that he faces "imminent danger" due to mistreatment in prison. The government stated that Abu Safiya, formerly the director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, has undergone numerous medical examinations since his transfer to Rakefet maximum-security prison.

Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) had petitioned the court, alleging the doctor's life was at risk. The government's response to the Supreme Court indicated that Abu Safiya has been under continuous medical surveillance and receives treatment according to professional judgment, with no life-threatening condition detected.

However, PHRI expressed that the state's response raises unanswered questions. The organization noted that the state did not explain the necessity or results of the examinations, nor how they align with the claim that Abu Safiya's life is not in danger. PHRI highlighted growing doubts about his health, particularly as the state did not clarify if the exams were a response to urgent allegations made after his lawyer's visit.

Previously, PHRI had presented a sworn statement from Abu Safiya's lawyer, Naser Odeh, claiming the doctor was assaulted with a hammer and batons after a court hearing in June. PHRI had requested an urgent visit from a Supreme Court judge to personally assess Abu Safiya's condition and prevent irreversible harm. Abu Safiya was arrested by Israeli forces in December 2024 during the siege of the Kamal Adwan Hospital and, along with 13 other Gazan doctors, remains imprisoned without charge under the Illegal Combatants Law.