Today, the Israeli Supreme Court postponed, for several hours, its decision regarding the detention of the humane physician imprisoned in Israeli occupation prisons, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya. This step reflects the continued arbitrariness and violations he has been subjected to since his arrest.
Dr. Abu Safiya appeared for the first time since his arrest during his trial hearing. Clear signs of fatigue, exhaustion, and aging were visible on him, in addition to major changes in his appearance indicating a deterioration in his health condition. During the hearing, in which he participated online,
“I am a pediatrician. I provide medical service and care to patients, the injured, and the vulnerable in the Gaza Strip. I carried out my work in accordance with international law and humanitarian standards. My arrest is unjust and arbitrary, and I demand that the court release me immediately,” Dr. Abu Safiya said after the hearing.
Dr. Abu Safiya is being held in solitary confinement in Nafha Prison, where he suffers from mistreatment and ongoing abuse.
Lina Al-Taweel, director of the center, said that Dr. Abu Safiya’s arrest is illegal and took place while he was on duty before the eyes of the entire world, in sham courts reminiscent of the Inquisition and fascism in their harshest forms.
Al-Taweel pointed out that around 10,000 Palestinian prisoners are subjected to similar degrading treatment inside Israeli prisons, including approximately 30 doctors and dozens of workers in the health sector. They face continuous restrictions on their detention conditions and are deprived of the most basic elements of healthcare.
She explained that Dr. Abu Safiya has spent about 530 days in detention since December 27, 2024, and the reason for his arrest has still not been disclosed, as the detention files remain secret according to the military prosecution.
Al-Taweel called on the international community and human rights institutions to intervene immediately to ensure Dr. Abu Safiya’s safety, his right to medical care, and his immediate release, and to stop all forms of violations against Palestinian prisoners inside Israeli prisons.
Palestinian Center for Prisoners Advocacy
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
