Physicians for Human Rights Israel has expressed concern over the health of Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in the Gaza Strip, saying he faces an immediate threat to his life while in Israeli detention.
According to the organisation, its lawyer Nasser Odeh visited Abu Safiya on July 2 at the Rakefet detention facility in Nitzan Prison and documented serious injuries, signs of alleged physical abuse, breathing difficulties and repeated episodes of loss of consciousness.
The lawyer said Abu Safiya was brought to the meeting with his hands and feet shackled and under escort by masked prison guards. He also reported fresh injuries and severe bruising around his head, eyes, ears and neck, adding that his physical condition had significantly deteriorated.
Physicians for Human Rights Israel renewed its call for the immediate release of Abu Safiya and other medical personnel being held without charge or trial.