Hussam Abu Safiya, a 52-year-old pediatrician and hospital director in Gaza, has been held in Israeli custody without charge since December 2024. His family, colleagues, and human rights organizations are concerned about his deteriorating health after a recent court appearance where he appeared frail and weak.

Abu Safiya is one of 14 doctors from Gaza detained in Israel without trial for over a year. Calls for his release have come from United Nations experts, Amnesty International, and Physicians for Human Rights Israel. During a recent visit, his lawyer reported that Abu Safiya showed signs of physical abuse, with bruises and torture marks visible on his body.

The Israel Prison Service denies mistreating Abu Safiya and other doctors in custody. Israel alleges Abu Safiya’s involvement with Hamas, a claim refuted by Gaza’s Health Ministry and Hamas. Despite international calls for his release, Abu Safiya remains detained under the unlawful combatants law, allowing indefinite detention without charges.

Concerns have been raised by the UN and human rights groups over the treatment of Abu Safiya in custody, including reports of solitary confinement and physical abuse. His son fears for his father’s life due to a head injury sustained while in detention. Despite ongoing efforts to secure his release, Abu Safiya continues to be held, sparking global calls for solidarity in pressuring Israel for his freedom.