Israel breaks silence on Gaza hospital director: detained Hamas officer not in danger

Israel’s mission to the United Nations in Geneva has responded to an international campaign for the release of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Shifa Hospital in Gaza, stating that he is being lawfully detained as a Hamas operative. The intervention comes after weeks of growing pressure from rights groups and international organisations calling for his freedom.Addressing allegations of torture and deteriorating conditions in detention, Israel’s UN representatives insisted that his imprisonment remains under continuous administrative review and judicial oversight. They dismissed reports of mistreatment, declaring: “There are no indications supporting the claims that have been raised.”The case of Abu Safiya has become a focal point in the broader international debate over Israel’s detention practices and treatment of Palestinians held in Israeli custody. His arrest earlier this year drew particular attention given his prominent position running Gaza’s largest hospital during the ongoing conflict.Israel’s statement represents a rare public response to the sustained campaign on behalf of the 61-year-old doctor, who has been held since his capture in the Shifa Hospital compound. The Israeli government has previously maintained a largely defensive posture regarding such cases, making the direct rebuttal of abuse claims notable.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.