UN calls Israel’s detention of Gaza doctor arbitrary as concerns over his health grow

A United Nations human rights panel has called for the immediate release of Gaza doctor Hussam Abu Safiya, ruling that his detention by Israel is arbitrary and violates international human rights law.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said Israel’s detention of the 52-year-old paediatrician and director of Kamal Adwan Hospital breaches multiple provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It said the appropriate remedy would be his immediate release, along with compensation and reparations.

The panel also warned that the case may reflect a broader pattern of arbitrary detention, raising concerns about what it described as a possible widespread or systematic practice.

Rights groups warn doctor’s life is at risk

MENA Rights Group, which filed the complaint, said Abu Safiya has been held since December 2024 and has endured prolonged solitary confinement, repeated interrogations and physical abuse, including beatings.

His lawyer, Nasser Odeh, said his health has deteriorated significantly and warned that he faces daily mistreatment in custody. Humanitarian organisation Medical Aid for Palestinians also expressed concern, saying his life is in imminent danger.

Last month, Israel’s Supreme Court rejected an appeal seeking his release, citing confidential evidence under Israel’s law governing the detention of alleged “unlawful combatants,” which permits renewable periods of detention without charge.

The Israeli military has accused Abu Safiya of links to Hamas but has not publicly presented evidence. Gaza’s health ministry and Hamas have denied the allegation.

Abu Safiya is among at least 14 Gaza-based doctors reportedly detained by Israel without charge for more than a year. The UN panel’s findings are not legally binding but are frequently cited in international legal proceedings and human rights cases.