World
Release of Gaza Hospital Director Sparks Controversy
The release of the Gaza Hospital Director has ignited a heated debate and sparked controversy among the community members and healthcare professionals in the region.
Israel released Mohammad Abu Salmiya, the director of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, after more than seven months of detention. Abu Salmiya was detained during an Israeli military raid on the facility in late November. Despite no public charges against him, his release has stirred debate both in Palestine and Israel.
Outcry Over Prolonged Detention
Human rights groups have criticized Israel for Abu Salmiya’s extended detention, citing it as an example of mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners. Meanwhile, some Israeli officials have condemned the decision to release him, attributing it to alleged mismanagement during the conflict.
Details of Detention
Speaking after his release, Dr. Abu Salmiya revealed the harsh conditions he endured, stating that he and other detainees faced extreme torture. He disclosed incidents of physical abuse, including a broken finger and repeated head injuries. The Israeli Prison Service denied knowledge of these claims, asserting that all prisoners are held in accordance with the law.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Abu Salmiya mentioned that he underwent several legal procedures during his detention but was never formally charged. His arrest occurred while accompanying a United Nations ambulance convoy evacuating patients from the hospital to southern Gaza when they were halted at an Israeli checkpoint.