Arabic version: مجموعة حقوق الإنسان التابعة للأمم المتحدة تدعو إلى الإفراج الفوري عن الطبيب الفلسطيني المحتجز

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has demanded the immediate release of Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safia, stating that his life is in imminent danger due to his ongoing detention by Israeli authorities. The group found that Israel’s actions violate multiple articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. According to Al Jazeera, the UN body emphasized that Abu Safia’s case may reflect a broader issue of arbitrary detention in the country.

Abu Safia, who was captured by Israeli military forces in Gaza in December 2024, has reportedly endured daily abuse while in custody. His lawyer, Nasser Odeh, expressed grave concerns for the doctor’s health, citing signs of torture. Rights groups and family members echo these worries, asserting that Abu Safia has been subjected to severe mistreatment during his time in prison.

The UN rights group has called for Abu Safia’s immediate release and for Israel to provide compensation and reparations in accordance with international law. The Israel Prison Service has not responded to requests for comment regarding the allegations of mistreatment. Previously, the service has denied claims that Abu Safia and other detained medical staff have faced abuse.

Abu Safia was serving as the director of Kamal Adwan hospital in Gaza when he was detained, alongside other medical personnel and patients. He has been held without charge since his arrest, continuing to advocate for Gaza’s struggling healthcare sector even after experiencing personal loss, including the death of one of his sons in an Israeli drone strike.