20 February 2025

The Unlawful Detention of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya: A Case That Demands International Accountability

Israeli Channel 13 has aired footage of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, shackled and handcuffed, appearing visibly thin and exhausted.

His family has accused Israeli forces of subjecting him to “severe mistreatment and torture” following his arrest on 28 December 2024.

What the Israeli regime forgets is that it is recording its own war crimes, and the humiliation is theirs.

The footage shows four heavily armed Israeli prison guards escorting him in front of cameras and an interviewer.

Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, a paediatrician, has been imprisoned without charge or trial by Israel since 28 December.

Why is a doctor—whose duty is to save lives—shackled, handcuffed, and humiliated before cameras? With his head bowed, shuffling in his socks, he is presented as a criminal—without any evidence against him.

The Geneva Conventions prohibit the use of prisoners for propaganda (Article 13, Third Convention) and explicitly ban cruel treatment and coercion (Article 17). If a Palestinian prisoner is forced to speak under pressure or threat, this is a clear violation of international humanitarian law.

Israel’s treatment of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya—after months of imprisonment without charge—is an outright breach of these protections.

Dr Hussam’s family state that he was subjected to severe mistreatment and torture by the army in the early days of his arrest and was held in solitary confinement for 24 days. They said his health condition is stable, but he suffers from chronic high blood pressure and an enlarged heart muscle. He is only provided with one meal a day, which is insufficient and of very poor quality.

His family, who have endured months of uncertainty, have now spoken out against his mistreatment:

“The footage broadcast by Israeli media of our father, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, is yet another form of psychological terrorism, adding to the torture he has endured over the past two months.

“It also reflects clear media distortion through the manipulation and alteration of his statements.

“When asked about the Israeli prisoners, he responded that he is a paediatrician. However, his answer was deliberately rephrased and distorted, despite him completely denying all accusations made against him.

“We, the family of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, reject any media outlet publishing the video without addressing the psychological terrorism involved and exposing the manipulation of his statements.

“The sight of our father shackled and unable to move should prompt immediate and continuous action to ensure his immediate release.”

While reports suggest Dr Hussam may be released this Saturday, his prolonged detention without charge and the allegations of torture require urgent international scrutiny. His release must be immediate and unconditional, and those responsible for his mistreatment must be held accountable under international law.

#ReleaseDrHussamAbuSafiya

#Israel

#Palestine

#Gaza

#HumanRights