The IASW is calling for the immediate release of Dr Hussam Aby Safiya and all Health and Social Care professionals detained without charge, trial or appropriate judicial process. Dr Hussam was detained by the Israeli Defense Forces on the 27th of December 2024 following a raid on the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Northern Gaza. It is unclear at this point if Dr Hussam is still alive.
According to the Guardian Newspaper 1,057 health workers in Gaza have been killed since the October 7th attack. Gaza is now without any Health and Social Care facilities to provide even the most basic healthcare service. Kamal Adwan Hospital was the last major health facility operating and it is now out of service.
The IASW supports the World Health Organizations call to protect health workers and hospitals as per humanitarian law.
“Health facilities, workers and patients are always off limits, they must be protected and never be attacked, nor used for military purposes. The principles of precaution, distinction and proportionality under International Humanitarian Law are absolute and always apply.”
The ongoing targeting of healthcare facilities without proof of terrorist activities being coordinated and housed within must cease. Hospital facilities must be restored with all modern functions available to the people of Palestine (assessment, diagnostics, surgical, medications, aftercare supports, psychosocial supports etc.)
The International community must act now to secure the release of all hostages on both sides of the conflict and to expedite negotiation of an immediate ceasefire leading to enduring peace in the region.
The IASW remains committed to the people of Palestine facing genocide at the hands of Israel and refers the reader to our earlier statement on the 31st of May 2024: https://www.iasw.ie/page/1431
Further references in relation to Kamal Adwan Hospital and Dr Hussam’s detention:
ENDS
