Israel puts Palestinian doctor in solitary confinement after 17 months held without charge
Israel puts Palestinian doctor in solitary confinement
Israel puts Palestinian doctor in solitary - Israeli forces have placed Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safiya in solitary confinement, raising concerns over his 17-month detention without charge. The 53-year-old, who directs Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, was arrested on 27 December 2024 while working at the facility. His son, Elyas Abu Safiya, a fellow physician, described the situation as a critical issue, emphasizing the physical and psychological strain his father has endured during over 500 days of imprisonment.
Detention Conditions
Abu Safiya was transferred from Ketziot prison to Ramon prison, part of the Ganot complex, where he is now confined to a solitary cell measuring just one metre by one metre. The cramped space has reportedly led to persistent pain and swelling from shrapnel wounds in his left thigh, which were sustained during his arrest. Elyas noted that his father required surgery for the injury but has not yet received proper medical attention.
“What we know about his time in detention shows severe suffering,” Elyas said. “He was not allowed to change clothes for months, and skin diseases developed without adequate treatment.”
The doctor’s son revealed that Hussam has worn a white medical coat since his arrest, a gesture of solidarity following the death of his son Ibrahim in a drone strike at the hospital in October 2024. Despite the trauma, Abu Safiya managed to keep the hospital operational during an 80-day military operation in the surrounding refugee camp.
Legal Status and Prolonged Holding
Israeli authorities have labeled Abu Safiya as an “unlawful combatant,” a status assigned to over 375 medical workers in Gaza. This designation has been used to justify his indefinite detention without formal charges. As of 4 June 2026, more than 525 days have passed since his arrest, with no accusations filed against him. His son criticized the lack of transparency, stating the only charge cited is his refusal to evacuate the hospital during attacks.
Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) confirmed Abu Safiya’s transfer to Ramon prison during a visit to five other Palestinian doctors held in Ketziot prison. Security personnel reportedly removed him from his cell without explanation, placing him in solitary isolation. The organization has since called for his release, citing the harsh conditions and the impact on his health.
International Reactions
Solitary confinement is recognized as one of the harshest forms of detention, with the UN Mandela Rules indicating that extended periods over 14 days may qualify as torture. Abu Safiya’s legal team, led by attorney Nasser Odeh, has filed an appeal, arguing that his prolonged isolation violates international human rights standards. Israeli officials stated the doctor’s detention is under the unlawful combatants law, which allows proceedings to remain confidential.
“The Israeli officials replied that the doctor is being held under the unlawful combatants law, with all legal proceedings subject to a gag order,” Odeh explained.
Following a March 2026 report by UN experts, Abu Safiya became one of 14 Palestinian doctors in Gaza detained without formal charges. His case has drawn attention to the broader issue of medical workers facing solitary confinement as part of Israel’s detention policies. PHRI continues to advocate for his release, urging the Israeli government to provide clearer justification for his imprisonment.
Escalating Detention Struggles
Detainees at Ketziot and Ramon prisons have reported deteriorating conditions, including prolonged periods of sitting or lying on metal beds without rest. Some prisoners have not appeared before a judge since December 2024, when their detention was extended indefinitely. The Israel Prison Service cited privacy reasons for withholding details about individual cases.
Abu Safiya’s family has faced difficulties in maintaining consistent communication with him. Elyas expressed frustration over the lack of transparency, noting the escalating challenges his father faces. The unresolved medical issues and solitary confinement have intensified calls for his release, highlighting the urgency of the situation for his well-being and the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.